JAS AROUND THE WORLD

News From JAS Worldwide - Global Focus

JAS Worldwide

6195 Barfield Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30328

Setting Sail Towards Sustainability: The Impact of California's Vessel Speed Reduction Program on Blue Whales and Beyond

By
JAS Sustainability Team
February 18, 2024
Blue Whale with Cargo Ship in the Background
Blue Whale with Cargo Ship in the Background

Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies is a voluntary Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) Program along the coast of California which incentivizes companies to incorporate sustainable shipping practices across their global supply chain. By creating seasonal and predictable slow speed zones, this program helps companies protect endangered whales, reduce fuel use and regional greenhouse gas emissions, and improve air quality and human health outcomes.

The program runs each year from mid-May to December to coincide with peak ozone and whale feeding and migration. The program covers two geographic regions, one along the Southern California coast and one outside the San Francisco Bay Area.

Since 2014, the program has achieved an estimated 44% decrease in the risk of whale strikes. 

As an ambassador, JAS engages with its shipping partners operating in the area, recognizes the shared vision and commitment with those already involved in vessel speed reduction, and further encourages other ocean carriers to participate in the program. 

“What makes the BWBS initiative stand out is that it not only addresses carbon emissions, but also safeguards biodiversity. By voluntarily reducing vessel speed (VSR) along the California coast, ocean carriers commit to protecting blue whales and raising industry awareness. JAS supports this initiative and will further engage its logistics partners on the key role whales play in the environment and our responsibility to improve the ocean ecosystem.” -Andrea Goeman, SVP QHSE & Sustainability, JAS Worldwide
“Being an ambassador for the BWBS Program is a great initiative towards more sustainable ocean freight solutions. It is a way to further engage with our carriers, with whom we share values towards a sustainable transformation, and an example of how collaboration can be beneficial for the logistics ecosystem, our customers, and the environment.” -Lars Huebecker, EVP Global Head of Ocean Freight
Linkedin Logo

Latest News

JAS team members around the world celebrated Earth Month.

JAS team members worldwide celebrated Earth Month through various activities aimed at promoting sustainability and conservation. From beach cleanups to tree planting, each activity reflected JAS's dedication to making a positive difference in local communities and beyond. 

In Germany, China, and Panama, JAS team members joined forces to plant over 1,300 trees. In Germany's Lower Saxony, to promote ecological resilience, employees chose a diverse range of tree species that they knew would thrive in the local climate and soil conditions. Similarly, in Xiamen, China, the JAS branch organized a poignant tree planting event aimed at enriching urban greenery and enhancing the cityscape, reflecting the team's commitment to sustainable development. Meanwhile, in Panama, JAS Panama collaborated with local organizations to plant native trees within the Camino de Cruces National Park, a vital initiative aimed at restoring habitats and preserving the region's rich biodiversity. 

Simultaneously, in Taiwan, the Netherlands, Lithuania, and Sweden, JAS team members united their efforts as they cleaned up costal shorelines and forests, embodying their shared commitment to environmental preservation. With gloves on and bags in hand, they combed the beaches, collecting everything from plastic bottles to cigarette butts, restoring the natural beauty of the their local communities. 

In Brazil, JAS team members partnered with the NGO Iracambi, and headed into the Atlantic rainforest to engage in various volunteer activities aimed at preserving this vital ecosystem. Through hands-on experiences like tree planting for reforestation and participating in educational workshops on sustainable practices, the Brazil team demonstrated their commitment to protecting biodiversity and promoting environmental awareness. 

Andrea Goeman, Senior Vice President of QHSE & Sustainability, commented, "From tree planting to coastal cleanups, our collective actions reflect our dedication to making a real and tangible difference in the communities we serve. Through collaboration and shared responsibility, our teams contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come." 

As Earth Month ends, JAS Worldwide stands proud of the collective efforts made by our global team to champion environmental stewardship. From tree planting endeavors in Germany, China, and Panama to coastal cleanups in Taiwan, Netherlands, and Sweden, and conservation efforts in Brazil's Atlantic rainforest, each initiative underscores our commitment to safeguarding the planet for future generations. These efforts exemplify the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility that defines JAS, inspiring us to continue our journey towards a more sustainable world. Together, we are paving the way for a greener, cleaner tomorrow. 

By combining efficiency with eco-friendly practices, JAS ECONTAINER not only reduces environmental impact but also offers cost savings and operational efficiencies, driving meaningful change in the industry and paving the way for a greener future, one shipment at a time.

At JAS, sustainability is a journey we're deeply committed to, and Earth Month serves as an ideal moment to shine a spotlight on initiatives that embody this commitment. One initiative that continues to drive positive change is JAS ECONTAINER, our innovative ocean freight solution designed to enhance operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact. 

Redefining Ocean Freight with JAS ECONTAINER 

JAS ECONTAINER combines the efficiency of headload shipments with eco-friendly practices. This approach has been at the forefront of our efforts for some time now, as highlighted by Vice President, Global Head of LCL, Peter Sinka. 

"In our ongoing journey towards sustainability, JAS ECONTAINER stands as a testament to our commitment to environmental responsibility," says Sinka. "By encouraging frequent replenishment and eliminating the pressure to fill containers to capacity, JAS ECONTAINER helps shippers reduce inventory costs, optimize warehouse space, and mitigate supply chain disruptions." 

The Environmental Imperative 

JAS ECONTAINER isn't just about operational efficiency—it's about driving meaningful change in the industry. Sinka emphasizes the product's positive environmental impact, citing its adoption of Marine Biofuel programs through insetting to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint. 

"Our goal was to create a product that not only meets modern supply chain challenges but also aligns with our commitment to sustainability," Sinka explains. "By choosing JAS ECONTAINER, shippers not only benefit from cost savings and operational efficiencies but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable future." 

A Competitive Edge 

Beyond its environmental benefits, JAS ECONTAINER offers a competitive edge in the market. Sinka notes that the product bridges the gap between traditional LCL and FCL offerings, providing cost-effective solutions for shipments ranging from 20 to 50 CBM. 

"Traditionally, LCL shipments face competitiveness challenges beyond a certain volume threshold," Sinka observes. "JAS ECONTAINER's pricing methodology ensures cost-effectiveness even for larger shipments, making it a preferred choice for shippers seeking optimal value and sustainability." 

Embracing a Greener Future 

As businesses worldwide prioritize sustainability and operational efficiency, JAS ECONTAINER emerges as a catalyst for positive change. Its flat-rate pricing model, strategic consolidation strategies, and eco-friendly initiatives not only drive cost savings but also empower shippers to make environmentally conscious choices. 

"In a world where sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand, JAS ECONTAINER offers a compelling solution," Sinka concludes. "We invite businesses to join us in embracing a greener future—one shipment at a time." 

Breaking ground for a sustainable future: JAS Middle East embarks on a new journey with the groundbreaking ceremony for their state-of-the-art 'Build to Suit' Logistics Hub in Dubai South

JAS Middle East recently broke ground on an innovative 'Build to Suit' Logistics Hub in Dubai South.  

This state-of-the-art facility will boast a unique blend of cutting-edge technology and environmental consciousness, aligning with JAS’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals. Spanning a land plot of 212,160 square feet and a built-up area of 127,300 square feet, the ESG-compliant hub will be designed to tailor to specific logistic needs and prioritize eco-friendly practices. 

In addition to its functional aspects, the property will incorporate other sustainability measures such as the installation of solar panels on its roof—allowing JAS Middle East to achieve ESG credentials. These panels will not only offset monthly utility costs but will help JAS Middle East increase its independence from the national grid (DEWA).  

The office space within the hub, spanning 13,347 square feet over two floors, will offer modern amenities such as meeting rooms, open-plan working areas, and recreational spaces, ensuring a conducive environment for employees and clients. 

“This project represents a significant milestone for JAS Middle East and its esteemed customers,” says Erwin Wittemaier, Area VP for the Middle East, “This strategic investment underscores our commitment to our customers and the UAE market. We look forward to deploying new technology to provide best-in-class logistics solutions.” 

With the exciting groundbreaking of the Dubai Logistics Hub, JAS Middle East not only strengthens its position in the logistics sector but also sets a standard for sustainable infrastructure development in the region. 

Our Sites use cookies for analytics purposes. For more information about the cookies we use on our Sites or how you can disable them, please see our Cookie Policy.