Europe

The Rhenus Group has undertaken a significant initiative to upgrade two canal push boats operated by Deutsche Binnenreederei (DBR) with state-of-the-art Stage V engines, aligning them with future environmental standards. As part of Rhenus’ ongoing fleet development plan to meet climate protection goals, this modernization effort is part of a broader strategy to equip the entire fleet with the latest engine technology. While the development of new hydrogen-powered vessels remains a long-term project, Rhenus is prioritizing short-term sustainability by retrofitting older vessels, starting with the canal push boats RSPSB146 and RSPSB153, both dating back to the 1970s.

The Duisburg Gateway Terminal (DGT), destined to become Europe’s largest inland terminal, is making steady progress, with the implementation of its crane system now underway. The initial girder is already operational on the terminal’s six rail tracks, and a second one is currently being added. Duisport revealed that this marks a significant milestone for the DGT project, with three cranes planned for the first expansion phase, two at dock A and one at dock B. Spanning over 220,000 square meters on the Coal Island of the German port, the terminal will feature six cranes, twelve rail freight platforms, five loading zones, three barge berths, and a 60,000-square-meter container storage area. The completion of the first construction phase is expected by the first quarter of 2024, and once operational, the terminal will have the capacity to handle containers weighing up to 43 tonnes.

DB Cargo has unveiled an updated map of its network, providing a comprehensive overview of the extensive global rail network spanning north to south and east to west. The map serves as an accessible tool, offering instant insight into the network’s benefits and essential information. The focus of this Logistics News series is on the southeastern route, revealing its significance and features.

On October 27, the inaugural phase of constructing the national hydrogen network was officially launched in Rotterdam’s port, with distinguished guests including King Willem-Alexander, Minister Jetten for Climate and Energy Policy, Mayor of Rotterdam Ahmed Aboutaleb, and the King’s Commissioner. This strategic network, spanning 1,200 kilometers, is accessible to all hydrogen suppliers and buyers, providing connectivity to five Dutch industrial clusters and establishing a link to Germany through the Delta Rhine Corridor.

The traditional receptions for business partners of the Port of Koper in Austria and the Czech Republic were successful, attracting over 400 guests. The events, held at the Natural History Museum in Vienna and the Prague City Hall, provided a platform for networking, business interactions, and strengthening partnership ties within the Port of Koper community.

The Kijfhoek marshalling yard, the largest in the Netherlands and a key transportation hub connecting the port of Rotterdam to Germany, is set to undergo significant modernization in the near future. This poses a substantial challenge as Kijfhoek plays a crucial role in supplying empty wagons to western ports. Especially during the cold months, DB Cargo Nederland actively utilizes hubs like Kijfhoek to transport liquefied petroleum gas for heating to Germany and Eastern Europe. This is a vital commodity relied upon by many during the cold winter season.

APM Terminals and DP World are joining forces in a groundbreaking initiative aimed at expediting the global decarbonization of terminals through the widespread electrification of container handling equipment (CHE). Backed by research indicating that the tipping point for battery-electric CHE can be achieved within the next 2-8 years with concerted efforts from industry stakeholders, the initiative seeks to revolutionize port operations.

From December 1, 2023, a new environmental charge for trucks weighing over 7.5 tons will be introduced in Germany, determined by CO2 emission classes. The environmental charge is set at 200 euros per ton of CO2 with the aim of reducing CO2 emissions from road transport by 30% by 2030.

The Port of Gdańsk has finalized a lease agreement paving the way for BLG AutoTerminal Gdańsk to handle military equipment crucial for the security assurance of Poland’s allies across Europe. The allocated real estate within the inner harbor will serve as a strategic hub for the handling and storage of military assets, as outlined in the 36-month agreement.

Expanding TransFER Network: ÖBB Rail Cargo Group Introduces New Connection with Central Italy between Villach and Frosinone