Shippers are increasingly prioritizing ocean carriers in their efforts to reduce Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions and manage future carbon costs, as highlighted in the recent report Scope 3 at Sea by OceanScore.
The study analyzes the Asia–Northern Europe trade route from January to June 2025, revealing that a carrier’s operational consistency is as crucial as its average emissions. Significant disparities were found among carriers regarding vessel utilization, sailing speeds, and overall carbon intensity, all of which impact shippers’ environmental footprints, compliance risks, and costs.
MSC and OOCL were identified as the most efficient carriers in the analysis, thanks to their lower-than-average carbon intensity, stable speed profiles, and high vessel utilization. Together, they accounted for 32% of voyages on this route, significantly influencing the corridor’s total emissions.
Additionally, both carriers experienced fewer extreme carbon spikes compared to their competitors, offering shippers greater predictability and less exposure to unexpected emissions.
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