Horizon Lines has announced the implementation of a combination of newly enhanced fuel efficiency and cost management programmes focused on conservation and fuel cost recovery as world oil prices reach US$110 per barrel.
Recent examples of cost recovery to mitigate rising fuel prices in tandem with conservation efforts include fuel surcharge increases in Alaska, Puerto Rico and a pending increase in Hawaii.
"As fuel prices hit new highs, we will work with our associates to improve efficiency, and with our customers, address cost recovery," said Horizon president John Keenan.
Horizon, through its EDGE process improvement programme, said in a statement that it has identified several initiatives to increase awareness of fuel conservation techniques to reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing service levels.
These initiatives include ship hull and propeller maintenance programmes as well as working directly with each ship captain to identify appropriate changes in speed or course to lower overall fuel consumption while allowing ships to remain on schedule.
Horizon Lines also expects further fuel efficiency improvements throughout 2008 from its participation in the SmartWay Transport Partnership. The programme is a collaborative effort by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the freight industry to increase energy efficiency, while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
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