On September 16, COSCO SHIPPING and China Classification Society (CCS) jointly hosted a high-level forum themed “Green and Smart Solutions for a Safe, Sustainable and Efficient Shipping Industry” at the London International Shipping Week 2025 (LISW25). The event showcased the Chinese shipping industry’s latest technologies and practical achievements in green, smart, and sustainable development, underscoring the Chinese shipping industry’s vision and global influence in advancing the “dual transformation”, namely digital intelligence and green low-carbon operations, of the sector. Mr. Zhu Bixin, Director of the Board and President of COSCO SHIPPING, attended this year’s LISW and delivered a keynote speech at the forum.

Mr. Zhu Bixin stated in his speech that COSCO SHIPPING has consistently integrated ESG principles into its global operations and is committed to offering customers “safe, efficient, and sustainable” shipping service products, which have earned widespread acclaim. He also proposed three initiatives for the sustainable development of the global shipping industry:

Firstly, to firmly support IMO’s net-zero framework, promote global regulatory uniformity, and provide a fair, efficient, clear, and definitive regulatory environment for the green transformation of the shipping industry.

Secondly, it will increase investment and coordination across the entire green energy industry chain. COSCO SHIPPING proposes the joint establishment of a dedicated fund for green shipping energy, supporting cross-border demonstration projects, overcoming energy supply bottlenecks, and accelerating large-scale application.

Thirdly, to promote the innovative application of digital technologies in the industry’s green transition. COSCO SHIPPING calls for the creation of a blockchain-based carbon footprint certification platform covering the entire lifecycle of green fuels, ensuring that data from production, transportation, refueling, to combustion is immutable, traceable, and auditable. The GSBN platform under COSCO SHIPPING has already achieved large-scale application of electronic bills of lading and stands ready to collaborate with international institutions to advance the standardization of global green certification data.

Mr. Zhu Bixin concluded by stating that COSCO SHIPPING will work hand in hand with global counterparts to promote cooperation through openness and achieve win-win outcomes through innovation, contributing collective wisdom and strength to the transformation and upgrading of the global supply chain. During the forum, representatives from international maritime regulatory authorities, industry organizations, leading enterprises, and research institutions engaged in in-depth discussions centered on the forum’s core theme, sharing cutting-edge insights and practical experiences.

At this year’s event, COSCO SHIPPING presented an integrated “shipping + port + logistics” green and smart supply chain solution. Currently, over one-third of the new vessels added by COSCO SHIPPING are powered by new energy fuels, and its overall operational efficiency has been enhanced through blockchain and AI technologies. Meanwhile, COSCO SHIPPING has launched a green shipping energy fund and a carbon footprint certification platform, aiming to accelerate the adoption of green fuels and the achievement of global emission reduction targets.

CCS also showcased its latest explorations and practices in the green and digital fields, including the formulation of over 30 green and digital ship standards, the development of a smart ship digital twin platform, and the establishment of a zero-carbon shipping innovation laboratory. It emphasized that by building an open and shared technological ecosystem, all global maritime stakeholders can benefit from it.

The China Association of the National Shipbuilding Industry (CANSI) noted that China has accumulated experience in green shipbuilding, smart vessel research and development, and green fuel supply that can be promoted and replicated globally, providing robust support for the construction of a “zero-carbon shipping community.”

Industry insiders attending the forum expressed that in the future, China and the UK, as well as China and Europe, will further strengthen cooperation in green fuel research and development, intelligent vessel demonstration, carbon footprint certification, and talent development. They also planned to announce the first batch of cooperation outcomes at the MARINTEC CHINA 2026.

COSCO SHIPPING (UK) officially released its ESG Highlights at the forum. As the main management and operational institution of COSCO SHIPPING in the UK, COSCO SHIPPING (UK) has consistently adhered to responsible operations, deeply integrating ESG principles into its corporate strategy and daily business practices. Driven by innovation, grounded in compliance, and employing collaboration as its approach, it actively responds to ESG development challenges and comprehensively enhances its ESG governance standards.

•The green smart flagship warehouse project has achieved a 40% reduction in carbon emissions

To adapt to climate change, Crystal Logistics has constructed an 11,000-square-meter green and smart warehouse at the Freeport of London Gateway Port. The facility features photovoltaic power generation, electric forklifts, and intelligent systems, achieving a 40% reduction in operational carbon emissions and earning a BREEAM “Outstanding” rating. This initiative effectively advances the development of a comprehensive logistics supply chain that is both green, low-carbon, digital, and intelligent.

•Promote the extensive adoption of new low-carbon models and formats through green logistics

Multimodal Logistics Ltd (MML) is fully advancing the green and low-carbon transformation of its fleet, achieving an energy efficiency improvement of approximately 8% and effectively reducing carbon emissions. Over 40% of the company’s vehicles have obtained FORS Silver accreditation, surpassing the industry average. MML is also actively engaged in the UK’s Clean Energy Research Alliance, focusing on advancements in electric, hydrogen, and hybrid trailers, and continuously leading the sustainable development of the container transport sector.

•Deeply engage in local communities and foster Sino-British cultural exchange

Crystal Logistics has consistently adhered to the principle of “global thinking + local operation,” delivering in-depth services to the UK’s local economy and promoting Chinese-British cultural exchange through diversified business activities. It has empowered the local economy and major projects, with deep involvement in landmark developments such as the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and has robustly supported the growth of infrastructure and economic vitality in UK communities. The company has also built a bridge for Chinese-British cultural exchange, providing services and support for cultural and people-to-people interactions, thereby enhancing the social impact of cultural initiatives. Additionally, it has facilitated international trade and supported small and medium-sized enterprises, vigorously developing cross-border e-commerce logistics and strongly promoting the win-win development of Chinese-British economic and trade cooperation.

•Shouldering corporate social responsibilities by dedicating to local community public welfare practices

Crystal Logistics proactively embraces social responsibility and has long been dedicated to local community public welfare. The company supports grassroots sports development and community integration by regularly funding charitable organizations and youth football events, establishing a mechanism of mutual trust and cooperation with the community. This sustained investment has earned broad local recognition and effectively enhanced the company’s social image.

•Empower local employees to fully develop their personal talents

COSCO SHIPPING (UK) upholds a deep “localization” human resources strategy. The company fully leverages the strengths of both Chinese and foreign employees, systematically cultivates local talent, and establishes a fair performance incentive and promotion mechanism. Employee loyalty and enthusiasm have significantly increased, forming a stable and efficient supply chain talent team. It has created employment opportunities for the local community and promoted career development, achieving mutual growth for the enterprise and its employees.

•Advance the development of a smart fleet management system and accelerate digital and intelligent transformation

MML has been actively advancing the development of a smart fleet management system. Through digital tools, it has significantly enhanced operational efficiency, customer response speed, work performance management, and data reliability, setting a new benchmark for digital governance in the industry.

Looking ahead, COSCO SHIPPING will continue to uphold the concept of sustainable development, deepen the integration of ESG with strategy and business, and work hand in hand with all parties to jointly advance the shipping and logistics industry toward a greener, more inclusive, and efficient future.

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