MANILA, Philippines — Maersk Line has participated in the Maritime Singapore Green Initiative by switching to low-sulfur fuel in Singapore.

The fuel switch supports the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore's engagement with the shipping line community to reduce carbon and sulfur emissions in Singapore.

"We are pleased with the Singapore port authority's initiative to promote sustainable shipping and to support the shipping lines that actively drive environmental performance" says Thomas Riber Knudsen, CEO, Maersk Line Asia Pacific.

Maersk Line signed the Maritime Singapore Green Pledge, stating its commitment to safeguard the Singaporean environment by driving towards cleaner and more fuel efficient shipping services.

"Singapore is at the forefront with sustainable economic development and a role model for a wide industry engagement driving tangible results in our sector. We have enjoyed being part of the process of establishing the Singapore Green Pledge, and we fully support Singapore's environmental ambitions" says Anders Lund Kristensen, Head of Liner Operations, Maersk Line Asia Pacific.

Maersk Line's goal is to drive its operations towards zero sulfur while cutting CO2 by at least 25% per container between 2007 and 2020.

Since its first fuel switch in 2006 in California, Maersk Line has advocated for sulfur reductions beyond regulatory requirements, and for establishing a level playing field in partnership with ports, authorities, shipping lines and customers.

"Maersk Line is supporting the Singapore initiative along with other leading shipping lines. We encourage more shipping lines to follow suit. Sulpfur emissions represent a health concern which our industry must address actively" says Jacob Sterling, Head of Climate & Environment, Maersk Line, Copenhagen.

As part of the company's global 'Zero SOx' program, Maersk Line has committed itself to implementing at least ten fuel switch programs before 2015. (EHL)