(Alliance News) - Anglo American PLC said on Thursday its newly launched liquefied natural gas, dual-fuelled ship had loaded its first cargo of iron ore from its Kumba Iron Ore Ltd operations in South Africa.

The Capesize+ vessel, called Ubuntu Harmony, is the first of ten new-build ships that Anglo American will introduce to its chartered fleet during the course of 2023 and 2024. Capesize ships are the largest dry cargo vessels.

These ships, it said, will deliver an estimated 35% reduction in carbon emissions, compared to ships fuelled by conventional marine oil fuel.

The use of gas will also lead to a significant reduction of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter from vessel exhausts, while new technology also eliminates the release of unburnt methane, the company said.

The Ubuntu fleet is a key component of Anglo American's plan to achieve carbon-neutrality for its controlled ocean freight by 2040.

"We are proud to see the Ubuntu Harmony begin its voyage transporting future-enabling products from our mines to our customers around the world. This milestone cements our vision to be a leader in low carbon shipping, a natural extension of our commitment to achieve carbon neutrality across our operations by 2040," said Peter Whitcutt, chief execuive of Anglo American's Marketing business

Anglo American shares were 0.6% higher at 3,617.00 pence in London on Thursday. They were up 0.9% at ZAR767.45 in Johannesburg.

By Artwell Dlamini, Alliance News reporter

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