Maersk Line says that it has implemented the "Quest" (Quality and Energy efficiency in Storage and Transport) system for refrigerated containers in a bid to reduce the energy use and CO2 emissions from reefers.
A statement for the shipping line said that by using the "Quest" software it will cut the energy use in cooling by up to 50 per cent and estimates that it will cut CO2 emissions by 325,000 tonnes annually when the programme is fully implemented in 2008.
According to Thomas Eskesen, senior director of reefer management, the use of "Quest" is a milestone in the company's "continuous effort to develop and implement cleaner and more fuel-efficient solutions."
He explained in the company release that Maersk Line had traditionally used large amounts of energy to maintain a constant air temperature inside the reefer container. "Quest," on the other hand, focuses on controlling the temperature of the cargo.
The solution is the result of a joint development project sponsored by the Dutch government, which involved the participation of Wageningen University and Research Centre in the Netherlands and Maersk Line.
"Quest" is a good example of thinking outside the box. The solution is innovative and successfully challenges conventional wisdom," added Mr Eskesen. "We are confident that it will reshape an important part of the container industry, benefiting both customers and the environment."
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