Find out how you can improve the carbon footprint of your RoRo transports
Global flows of goods are the backbone of the modern economy. However, the transport sector - especially maritime shipping - leaves a considerable ecological footprint. RoRo shipping in particular, i.e. the transport of rolling cargo such as cars, construction machinery or lorries, generates considerable amounts of CO₂.
In view of climate change, the issue of sustainability is becoming increasingly important. Companies and consumers are increasingly asking themselves: how can transport be made more climate-friendly without compromising on efficiency and global reach?
One promising approach is carbon offsetting for RoRo shipping - a mechanism that makes it possible to compensate for unavoidable emissions by investing in climate protection projects.
International shipping causes around 3 % of global CO₂ emissions - and the trend is rising. Huge RoRo ships burn heavy fuel oil, which releases not only CO₂ but also sulphur oxides and particulate matter during combustion.
While RoRo shipping is fundamentally more efficient compared to other transport methods such as air transport, it is still an emissions-intensive process - especially on long transport routes and with high capacity utilisation.
Sustainability is no longer a niche topic. More and more companies are integrating ESG (environmental, social and governance) criteria into their supply chain strategies. End customers are also increasingly scrutinising how their vehicles or machines are shipped across the globe.
Carbon offsetting is more than just a symbolic act: it signals a sense of responsibility and forward-looking action. Companies that act proactively not only strengthen their brand, but also position themselves as sustainable market players in the long term.
This article shows in a practical way how you can reduce and offset the CO₂ emissions of your RoRo transports - through sound knowledge, transparent tools and concrete options for action.
The amount of emissions depends on a variety of factors. In addition to the type of fuel and the efficiency of the ship, the load weight, route, speed and harbour infrastructure also play a key role.
Even the time spent in the port affects the balance: auxiliary machinery continues to run and emits additional emissions. If you want to make your own transport operations more climate-friendly, you need to know exactly what you need to do.
An SUV travelling to South America has a different carbon footprint than a compact car being shipped from Hamburg to Norway. The age and design of the ship, the route and possible stopovers also have an impact on the amount of emissions.
RoRo ships with modern technology - such as LNG propulsion or hybrid systems - cause significantly lower emissions than older models with conventional propulsion systems.
In many cases, RoRo shipping is more efficient than container transport, especially for large and rollable vehicles. Compared to air freight, it is many times lower in emissions.
For example: transporting a car by plane causes up to 30 times more CO₂ than a RoRo shipment on the same route. Nevertheless, this still leaves a relevant CO₂ footprint - which needs to be offset.
Climate protection projects do not replace a reduction, but they compensate for the unavoidable. CO₂ offsetting is based on the principle of neutralising the emissions caused by making savings elsewhere - e.g. by protecting forests, investing in renewable energies or clean cooking stoves in developing countries.
The first step is to determine the emission value of the transport - usually in kilograms or tonnes of CO₂. This is followed by the purchase of emission certificates that offset the same amount of CO₂ in certified climate projects.
These projects are monitored by international standards, such as the Gold Standard or Verified Carbon Standard (VCS). Transparent traceability is essential here.
CO₂ offsetting is not greenwashing if it is implemented transparently, credibly and verifiably. Companies that offset their transport not only improve their environmental footprint, but also the trust of their customers and partners.
Particularly in the B2B sector, carbon offsetting can become a decisive criterion in tenders - sustainability as part of the company's DNA.
Not all providers of CO₂ certificates work transparently. Look out for recognised standards, audited project reports and a clear project reference. Good providers also offer advice and reports for your sustainability reporting.
Examples of reputable platforms: atmosfair, myclimate, ClimatePartner.
Some projects protect existing rainforests, others plant new trees. Some invest in solar or wind energy, others improve cooking methods in rural regions.
The selection should match your corporate values - a project in the target region of your delivery can also create positive synergies.
More and more logistics service providers are offering CO₂ compensation directly in the booking process - with just one click. The additional cost is usually low, but the benefits are great.
Automated tools and platforms also help to calculate emissions and book offsetting directly - ideal for companies with regular shipping volumes.
Those who start systematically reducing and offsetting CO₂ emissions today will gain a clear advantage. Sustainability is increasingly becoming a purchasing decision - and a benchmark for partnerships along the supply chain.
Strategies that plan for carbon offsetting from the outset offer long-term efficiency and credibility.
Show your customers that you are taking responsibility. Integrate your CO₂ offsetting strategy into your website, your offers and your sustainability reporting. Use transparent labels and explanatory visuals.
Clear communication not only ensures understanding, but also appreciation.
CO2 offsetting for RoRo shipping is a pragmatic step towards more environmentally conscious logistics. It is easy to implement, cost-effective and at the same time makes a strong statement.
Make a statement today - for your customers, your brand and the planet.
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