The container vessel CMA CGM IRON, loaded with over 3,700 twenty-foot equivalent units of goods, set sail from the Qingdao Qianwan United Container Terminal of Qingdao Port, a subsidiary of Shandong Port Group (SPG). 

The container vessel CMA CGM IRON embarks from Qingdao Port's Qingdao Qianwan United Container Terminal. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn] 

This marks the first methanol-powered mega container vessel to berth at Qingdao Port this year. The ship is CMA CGM's first methanol-powered vessel, with SPG Logistics Group serving as its shipping agent. Departing from Mokpo Shipyard in South Korea, the ship makes port calls in Qingdao, Ningbo, Shekou and Singapore, enhancing trade links with the Middle East through more efficient and convenient logistics corridors.

The global shipping industry is currently making strong efforts to promote the adoption of green alternative fuels, with renewable methanol emerging as a new focus for green energy in the future shipping industry. Renewable methanol can not only effectively reduce pollution that is harmful to the marine ecology but also benefits from the relatively mature methanol internal combustion engine technology. With its high safety standards during application, methanol has the potential to effectively drive the green transition in the port and shipping industry. 

The successful berthing of the methanol-powered vessel will lay a solid foundation for future methanol bunking operations at the port. Going forward, Qingdao Port and Logistics Group will take this as an opportunity to expand their business, optimize relevant service facilities, and strengthen cooperation with stakeholders. The ultimate aim is to contribute to SPG's endeavors in developing an internationally advanced smart and green port.