GSBN: Transition to digital documentation processes could reduce CO2e emissions by 440,820 metric tonnes

The transition of an estimated 15.8m paper bills issued annually to digital processes could reduce CO2e emissions by up to 440,820 metric tonnes, according to the Impact of Digitalisation in Driving Decarbonisation in Shipping study carried out by Global Shipping Business Network (GSBN). 

Comprehensive models based on live cases were proposed to quantify the opportunities that digitised documentation processes represent for a sector that significantly impacts global trade, including electronic Bills of Lading (eBL) and the use of paperless solutions during the cargo release process. 

Additionally, the study suggested that the absence of a universally adopted digital platform creates interoperability challenges, complicating efforts to reduce carbon emissions.