Odfjell Launches First Green Deep Sea Corridor Brazil–Europe

Norwegian chemical tanker operator Odfjell has introduced the world’s first regular green corridor for deep sea shipping between Brazil and Europe, allowing vessels to complete the 5,000 nautical mile route using certified B24 biodiesel.

The corridor is expected to support between 12 and 15 voyages per year, with each round trip lasting roughly 40 days. The B24 biodiesel blend used for the project will be supplied from Rio Grande, Brazil.

This initiative supports the IMO’s 2030 emissions reduction goals and the European Union’s Fit for 55 climate plan. It also follows the 2024 Norway–Brazil memorandum of understanding, which outlined a pathway toward creating a green transatlantic corridor built on cleaner fuel options and more sustainable shipping practices.

To help strengthen the corridor, the ports of Rotterdam, Antwerp Bruges and Rio Grande are coordinating efforts to increase efficiency and improve port call processes. These improvements aim to shorten turnaround times and reduce related emissions.

Odfjell CEO Harald Fotland said the company is establishing the corridor as a long term, sustainable pathway for deep sea transport. The initiative has received support from the Norwegian Minister of Climate and Environment, the CEO of the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association and DNV’s CEO.