Shipping News

by Kit Duane – February 18, 2010

Maersk, the giant Danish shipping company has halved its container ships’ top cruising speeds over the past few years, because at slower speeds ships use less fuel and save the company money. A hopeful side effect: a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.  In yesterday's New York Times, Maersk pointed out that by cutting speeds slightly ships, planes, and cars could cut C02 emissions up to 20 percent, without the need for new technology.

This “slower is better” effect, dovetails nicely with the Drive 55 movement on US roads. Drive 55 urges  drivers to reduce their driving speed from 65 miles an hour to 55, decreasing emissions by 20 percent.

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