Maersk container 2

Danish group A.P Møller-Maersk has announced in its Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) report that it engineered a drop in carbon emissions of 9 per cent during 2008, a total reduction of 5m tonnes of CO2.

The reduction was achieved through lower fuel consumption on ships, which account for 90 per cent of the company's fuel usage, and reduced flaring from platforms.

Optimised use of energy in the transport segment meant it achieved a drop in fuel consumption of 8 per cent despite increased business activity, the group said.

'We have taken many important initiatives in 2008 and we firmly believe they will enhance improvements in our performance in coming years, said Maersk's head of HSSE Joseph Nazareth. 'Especially on environment I am pleased to say we have made progress.'

The improved results came following the implementation of an environmental strategy, which aims to deliver a high level of energy efficiency, creating economic value and competitiveness.

'In the economic downturn we remain committed to improving our impact on the environment and climate,' Mr Nazareth added.