Maersk: Procurement Challenges in a Changing Climate
Sustainability reporting has become more complex with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) now in effect. A.P. Moller - Maersk’s first CSRD-aligned Integrated Annual Report for 2024 highlights its progress toward sustainability goals, including its net zero target for 2040.
Lene Bjørn Serpa, Director, Head of Corporate Sustainability & ESG at A.P. Moller - Maersk, says: “Now that the first company reports are coming out, I am sure we will start to see studies that can provide a more solid and comprehensive assessment of the value of the disclosures from the perspective of the users of the reports, and thereby point to relevant opportunities to simplify the standards.”
Maersk’s role in global procurement and logistics
As a global logistics provider, Maersk plays a key role in managing complex supply chains. The company is integrating sustainability into procurement strategies by investing in green energy solutions, new vessel technology and supply chain optimisation.
In 2024, Maersk had more than 100,000 employees operating in nearly 130 countries. It managed 53 terminals across 28 countries and initiated three new port projects.
These investments are designed to strengthen global trade while reducing environmental impact.
To meet its net zero commitment, Maersk is focusing on supply chain decarbonisation. This includes adopting dual-fuel methanol vessels and securing long-term agreements for alternative fuels.
Procurement teams working with Maersk must now account for these sustainability measures when managing logistics contracts and supplier relationships.
ESG progress and procurement strategies
Maersk’s report shows steady progress on environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments. The company welcomed seven dual-fuel methanol vessels to its fleet, including the Maersk Halifax, the first retrofitted dual-fuel methanol vessel. It also announced plans for over 50 new vessels set to launch between 2026 and 2030.
From a procurement perspective, securing sustainable fuel sources is a critical challenge.
In 2024, Maersk signed a major offtake agreement for biomethanol, with deliveries expected in 2026. Combined with previous agreements, the company now covers more than 50% of its dual-fuel methanol fleet demand for 2027.
Maersk has also improved energy efficiency across its fleet, using advanced technologies and operational changes. However, despite these efforts, its total greenhouse gas emissions rose from 2023 to 2024.
The company attributes this to disruptions in the Red Sea, which forced vessel re-routing, created capacity shortages and increased port congestion — factors that also impact procurement and logistics planning.
Climate change and supply chain resilience
Maersk’s report highlights the increasing risks climate change poses to global trade. Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent, disrupting logistics networks and requiring procurement teams to develop more flexible sourcing and shipping strategies.
In 2024, 219 extreme weather events caused widespread disruption. A severe hurricane season in the US and major flooding in Spain not only led to human tragedy but also paralysed regional logistics. The company states that infrastructure resilience is now just as important as sustainability in ensuring stable supply chains.
According to Maersk’s report: “Volatility became a defining feature this year and is here to stay, further amplifying the complexities of supply chain management. Disruptions are the new normal, with fluctuating trade routes, sudden shifts in demand and environmental concerns shaping the global trade landscape.”
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