Anglo American Completes 10-Ship Fleet Expansion

Multinational mining corporation Anglo American has taken delivery of its final chartered LNG dual-fuelled Capesize+ bulk carrier, the MV Ubuntu Liberty. The delivery marks the completion of the company’s 10-vessel fleet, all of which have been built over the past three years in partnership with Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co. Ltd.

The Ubuntu Liberty will now its maiden voyage from China to Saldanha Bay, South Africa, to pick up a cargo load of iron ore.

The completion of the 10-ship fleet is a significant milestone in Anglo American’s commitment to more sustainable shipping. “The launch of the final vessel of our Ubuntu fleet is a huge step towards our commitment to a more sustainable path,” said Matt Walker, CEO of Anglo American’s Marketing business.

Walker also highlighted how using LNG as a fuel option can contribute to a cleaner maritime industry. “Our customers have shown a strong interest in our Ubuntu freight, recognizing the value of sustainable shipping as part of a more sustainable supply chain,” he said.

Anglo American aims to become carbon neutral for its controlled ocean freight by 2040, aligning with its Sustainable Mining Plan commitment to carbon neutral operations across its mines by the same year. The LNG dual-fuelled vessels are estimated to offer a 35% reduction in emissions compared to ships powered by conventional marine oil fuel and are currently the most efficient of their type.

The so-called “Ubuntu” fleet has already moved 6.4 million tonnes of iron ore and steelmaking coal across global shipping routes since the first vessel was loaded in early 2023. The fleet has also made over 30 refuelling stops for LNG in locations such as Singapore and Malaysia.

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