At a pivotal moment for shipping’s decarbonisation, the Sea Cargo Charter (SCC) brought signatories together in Geneva last week for its sixth annual meeting, hosted by Bunge. The meeting marked a forward-looking step for the initiative, as signatories explored how to build on SCC’s strong foundation and further strengthen its role in advancing climate transparency across the industry.
James Lewis, Global Head of Operations at Cargill, was appointed as the Association’s new Chair. Cargill, one of the world’s largest bulk shipping and freight-trading organisations, is a founding signatory of the Sea Cargo Charter. Two Cargill representatives have previously served in the role of SCC Chair and Vice Chair.
“I am very excited to be taking on the role of Chair of the Sea Cargo Charter, particularly at such a pivotal time for both the Association and the wider industry. Regulatory delays only increase the importance of credible, voluntary climate disclosure frameworks, and our signatories are leading the way in transparently working towards decarbonising their operations,” said Mr. Lewis.
Engebret Dahm, CEO of Klaveness Combination Carriers, will continue as Vice Chair and Treasurer after having graciously stepped in as interim Chair in mid-2025.
“We know the shipping industry must decarbonise—that goal post hasn’t changed. In my new role as Vice Chair and Treasurer, I’m proud to continue representing this group of shipowners and charterers voluntarily choosing to be accountable at a time when many are choosing silence. I encourage forward-looking shipowners and charterers to join us in that mission,” said Mr. Dahm.
Christian Bonfils, CEO of Copenhagen Commercial Platform and former Vice Chair of the Sea Cargo Charter, will take a more active role in the initiative’s onboarding efforts, supporting engagement with prospective signatories and expanding its membership base.
The SCC steering committee now comprises 14 signatories: ADM, Anglo American, Bunge, Cargill Ocean Transportation, Copenhagen Commercial Platform, Dow, Emirates Global Aluminium, Equinor, Klaveness Combination Carriers, Louis Dreyfus Company, Norden, South 32, TotalEnergies and Trafigura Maritime Logistics.
During the annual meeting, signatories met in person to endorse key operational topics, including budget approval and governance. Building on signatories’ shared commitment to a common standard for emissions reporting and benchmarking, discussions during the meeting focused on how the SCC can continue to strengthen its methodology, unlock deeper insights from collected data within SCC methodology, and expand collaboration through joint initiatives and knowledge-sharing. On the agenda was also a dedicated knowledge-sharing session, with signatories exchanging insights on voyage optimisation and the contractual realities shaping operational efficiency.
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