means that the entire loading capacity of the vessels can be used when loading high bales of pulp. The total value of the vessel order is around EUR 70 million. Koskinen explains that the order can be expanded with several optional vessels in the future. “This investment will boost ESL Shipping’s competitive- ness and future growth as an industrial partner. With these new vessels, we are also preparing for an increase in Metsä Fibre’s production volumes, following the new Rauma saw- mill and the completion of Kemi bioproduct mill next year.” The ice class of ESL Shipping’s new vessels is 1A, mean- ing that they can operate in difficult ice conditions with icebreaker escort. This is necessary to ensure transport operations and security of supply in northern waters. “The most challenging part in designing the new vessels comes from the need to ensure high energy efficiency in addition to a high ice class.” Good design offers cost savings Thanks to the close partnership with Metsä Group, overall logistics can be planned together. By combining import and export transports, savings can be achieved in time, energy, and costs for both companies.
Alongside his daily duties, the shipping company’s man- aging director keeps close tabs on technological develop- ments related to maritime transport. To achieve carbon neutral transports in the future, it is essential to replace the diesel fuels currently in use with non-fossil fuels. Reductions in maritime emissions call for industrial scale production of renewable fuels, Koskinen says. At present, the availability of such fuels is very limited. “Biofuels obtained from forest industry side streams can be one solution.” In terms of emissions in relation to the volumes of cargo carried, maritime transports are already an environmentally friendly option compared to other modes of transport. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the carbon dioxide emissions of a cargo ship total 7.9 grams per tonne-kilometre, compared to 80 grams for lorries and 435 grams for air cargo. Continuous improvement is something that motivates Koskinen in his job. “I want to design my work so that we develop with the customer and jointly create new things.” •
19
Powered by FlippingBook