Samskip’s sustainability goals

Samskip aims to operate responsibly while creating a positive impact on the environment, social factors, and governance across all aspects of its operations.

Sustainability is a vital part of Samskip’s business, with the primary focus on choosing environmentally friendly transport modes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Our vision, mission, and values are carefully developed to reflect our beliefs, aspirations, and goals for the future. We are committed to seizing every opportunity on our journey to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 for Samskip as a whole, both domestically and internationally.

We focus on environmental protection, the well-being of our employees and customers, and delivering high-quality service at the right price. We are committed to becoming Europe’s most sustainable container shipping company by aligning and structuring our actions and initiatives throughout our sustainability journey. Our sustainability priorities call for the development of new business models, ensuring that every core business activity across our operating units contributes to building a sustainable world.

Among our key goals for the coming years are reducing carbon emissions across all our operations, creating and offering low- or zero-emission freight services and solutions, and fostering a company culture that promotes and celebrates sustainability.

CO₂e reduction

We have reduced our carbon footprint by 10.24% compared to the previous year through targeted actions in our transport and operations.

Reusable energy

35% of the electricity used at Samskip’s facilities worldwide comes from renewable energy sources.

Sustainable solutions

We develop transport solutions that enable our customers to choose more sustainable options, without compromising reliability or efficiency.

Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG)

Samskip’s sustainability initiatives focus on three core pillars, ESG, which stands for Environment, Social, and Governance.

Enviroment
Social
Governance

Building the future of transport

We are committed to supporting our customers into a future where sustainability plays a key role. By targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2040—an ambition aligned with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)—we work to integrate sustainability into everything we do.

This means that when companies partner with us, they benefit from a multimodal, efficient transport network designed to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. We invest in biofuels and advanced technologies, such as our hydrogen-powered SeaShuttle vessels, to minimize environmental impact and set new standards for responsible transport.

Decarbonizing our operations

By working with Samskip, our customers become part of our journey to achieve net-zero by 2040. We can partner with your company to help you reach your own sustainability goals by reducing the environmental impact of your operations.

Creating impact through collaboration

Við trúum því að raunveruleg sjálfbærni náist aðeins með samvinnu. Þess vegna tökum við alla virðiskeðjuna með í vegferð sjálfbærninnar.

Ensuring reliability and transparency

Our customers can trust that we approach sustainability with the utmost commitment and care.

We operate in accordance with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). We emphasize transparency across the entire value chain, ensuring that our customers’ operations remain compliant and aligned with—or even ahead of—regulatory developments.

Sustainability governance within Samskip

Taking steps toward a sustainable future is a long-term journey for every company—and a demanding one. Success requires a clear strategy, strong prioritization, and a shared understanding of what truly matters.

At Samskip, our sustainability work is built on thorough analysis and active engagement with stakeholders. We have collaborated with a diverse group of people to answer a fundamental question: What matters most to us?

Based on these insights, we have defined our key priorities and are committed to taking actions that create real impact across the entire value chain.

How we manage sustainability within the company is reviewed annually by EcoVadis—global experts in sustainability assessments. These evaluations provide valuable insights that we use to continuously improve. By setting ambitious targets and maintaining a clear long-term vision, we are not only preparing for the future—we are shaping sustainable operations today.

When companies choose Samskip, they benefit from our commitment to reducing environmental impact, upholding human rights and respect in the workplace, and ensuring responsible procurement practices.

We are committed to supporting our customers into a future where sustainability plays a key role. By targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2040—an ambition aligned with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)—we integrate sustainability into everything we do. This means that when companies partner with us, they benefit from a multimodal, efficient transport network designed to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. We invest in biofuels and advanced technologies, such as our hydrogen-powered SeaShuttle vessels, to minimize environmental impact and set new standards for responsible transport.

Previous sustainability reports

Here you can view Samskip’s sustainability reports from previous years since EcoVadis certification began.

What matters most to us?

Results from Samskip’s Double Materiality Assessment

What drives our sustainability efforts is reflected in our latest Double Materiality Assessment. This table presents the results and highlights the factors that matter most to us. We view the planet and people not only as areas where we can make an impact, but also as factors that have a financial impact on our operations. This approach – known as double materiality – helps us understand both how the environment affects our business and how our business affects the environment.

We followed EFRAG’s official guidelines throughout the process, ensuring that our work aligns with new European regulatory requirements.

Financial materiality assessment: Evaluates how external sustainability factors impact the company’s financial performance and long-term value creation.

Impact materiality assessment: Examines how the company’s operations affect the environment, society, and stakeholders.

Want to learn more about how these topics are integrated into our operations? Explore the table below by category.

  • Environment

  • Social
  • Governance

1. Environment:

2. Social:

3. Governance:

4. Social:

5. Social:

6. Environment:

Environment: Our Planet

We are committed to creating a lasting positive impact on the environment through targeted actions.
Our sustainability goals focus on reducing emissions, pioneering cleaner transport solutions, and strengthening a culture of responsibility.
Discover how our ambitious targets are guiding us toward a more sustainable future—for both your business and our planet.

Reducing carbon emissions in our operations

Reducing our CO₂ footprint by 10% in 2023

Compared to 2020
  • Five of our vessels, powered 100% by biofuel, have enabled us to reduce the fleet’s CO₂e emissions by an estimated 24% (compared to a verified 23.8% reduction in 2023).
  • The share of renewable energy use—including marine biofuels, HVO100 biofuel, green electricity at offices, and rail transport—now totals 21%.

Reducing our CO₂ footprint by 20% in 2025

Compared to 2020
  • More efficient route planning and scheduling using smart software.
  • Shifting transport modes toward more efficient options such as rail and sea/inland waterway transport where available in Europe.
  • Increased use of biofuels for both maritime and road transport.

Reducing our CO₂ footprint by 50% by 2030

Compared to 2020
  • Zero-emission shipping using the latest hydrogen vessel technology.
  • Carbon capture technology onboard our vessels.
  • Shore power connections to reduce the use of diesel engines while in port.
  • Expanded use of electric rail connections.
  • Low- to zero-emission road transport through the use of electric vehicles and biofuels such as HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil).

Designing and delivering low- to zero-emission freight services and solutions

Introducing zero-emission vessels by 2025

  • We will introduce the world’s first fully hydrogen-powered container vessels.

Introducing fully zero-emission vessels by 2030

  • Doubling the number of zero-emission vessels from 2025 onward

Achieving net-zero emissions by 2040

  • Building a company culture that promotes and celebrates sustainability

Building a company culture that promotes and celebrates sustainability

Achieving EcoVadis Gold certification in 2023

Top 5% in the industry
  • Improved reporting on key data points.
  • A comprehensive dashboard for key performance indicators introduced.
  • A detailed methodology for carbon footprint measurement developed.

 

Achieving EcoVadis Platinum certification in 2024

  • Updated policies and codes of conduct with clearly defined targets.
  • Expanded measurement of key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • Implementing science-based targets to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040.
  • Strengthened data collection processes to improve accuracy and measurability.

Reducing empty container movements by 10% by 2025

  • By using smart transport management systems, we will continue to reduce empty container movements across our network. This benefits our customers, the environment, and our operations alike.

Carbon Calculator

With our carbon calculator, you can estimate the carbon footprint of your shipments to and from our ports and destinations.

Science-Based Targets (SBTi)

We are proud to be among 4,000 companies taking decisive action to build a net-zero economy. Our emissions reduction targets have been independently validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), and we work with climate experts to set ambitious, science-based goals across all our operations, including maritime activities.

Explore our journey toward net-zero by 2040 – ten years ahead of the industry average.

How do we achieve net-zero carbon emissions?

By reducing CO₂ emissions year by year, we aim to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. All measurements are based on a 2020 baseline.

10%

Reduction in 2023

20%

Reduction in 2025

50%

Reduction in 2030

100%

Reduction in 2040

Samskip’s decarbonization

We go beyond traditional multimodal transport solutions by leveraging our expertise in sustainable energy sources to select the right energy solution for each route and each type of vehicle.

1. Biofuels for vessels

We have converted five vessels to run on 100% biofuel, ISCC-certified and sourced sustainably. This delivers up to an 89% reduction in CO₂ emissions (applicable to Samskip as a whole).*

2. Biofuels for trucks

We are increasing the use of HVO biofuel in road freight. This waste-derived fuel is carefully selected to ensure it does not compete with food production or contribute to deforestation.

3. Hydrogen-powered container vessels – SeaShuttle

We are pioneers in the development of hydrogen-powered container vessels and are targeting our first voyage in 2026—a major step toward net-zero. These vessels will operate on routes between Rotterdam and Norway.

4. Electrification

As of 2023, 24% of the electricity used at our offices and in rail operations came from renewable energy sources—an increase of 3% compared to the previous year. This initiative strengthens Samskip’s position as a leading provider of sustainable transport solutions across Europe.

Our goals for the Samskip Group as a whole

Multimodal transport

More than 50% of CO₂ emissions can be reduced on many routes simply by taking a multimodal approach. While new fuels often take center stage, energy efficiency is sometimes overlooked when discussing carbon emissions. Yet there is no greener energy source than the energy that is not used.

That is why Samskip operates an extensive multimodal transport network, combining short-sea shipping, inland waterways, rail, and road transport. Shifting cargo from road to rail and inland barges can deliver substantial emissions savings – often exceeding 50% compared to traditional road transport.

Our unique strength lies in multimodal transport and environmentally responsible logistics solutions.

Reducing Samskip’s carbon footprint

Through strong environmental initiatives, Samskip reduced its carbon footprint by 10.24% between 2023 and 2024.

More sustainable solutions for our customers

We work systematically to reduce the carbon footprint of our transport services, thereby supporting our customers’ value chains. We focus on using environmentally friendly energy sources – such as electricity and biofuels – and offer short-sea shipping, making sustainable choices easier than ever.

Sailing into the future: SeaShuttle

While biofuels and LNG are effective transition fuels, Samskip is taking the next step by developing two hydrogen-powered vessels designed to operate with zero emissions.

Through the SeaShuttle project, we have committed to building two hydrogen-powered container vessels for emission-free transport. The project has been awarded €15 million in funding from the Norwegian state enterprise ENOVA.

This ambitious initiative, led by Samskip, aims to establish one of Europe’s first “green corridors” with zero carbon emissions between the Oslofjord and Rotterdam.

These vessels are scheduled to enter service in 2025 and will transform shipping as we know it—connecting Rotterdam with the Greater Oslo region while emitting nothing but clean water. In zero-emission mode, the two SeaShuttles are expected to deliver CO₂ reductions of approximately 25,000 tonnes per year. They will also achieve zero-emission port operations by using green shore power at their ports of call.

Samskip’s Environmental Policy

Our environmental policy defines our approach to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable transport solutions.

  • Environmental Management. We strive to minimize the negative environmental impact of all our operations. As a leading company, we share knowledge and information about our environmental performance with employees, partners, and the wider community. To ensure continuous improvement, we follow recognized environmental standards and benchmarks.es Here
  • Energy. We regularly monitor our energy consumption, use environmentally friendly energy sources wherever possible, and work to keep pollution to a minimum.
  • Products and Services. We design our production and service processes in line with defined objectives, taking into account their impact on nature, the environment, and society. We assess risks and place strong emphasis on employee training to prevent accidents and ensure proper working practices and response procedures.
  • Raw Materials and Procurement. When selecting suppliers, equipment, and other inputs, we prioritize environmentally responsible options. We aim to minimize the use of all operational materials and reduce waste.
  • Workplaces. We strive to ensure that all workplaces are exemplary, safe, and well-maintained. Environmental protection is a key consideration in the selection and operation of our work sites.
  • Waste Management. We minimize the amount of waste generated across our operations. Waste is sorted, handled, and disposed of using environmentally responsible methods in collaboration with certified partners. We place strong emphasis on reuse and recycling wherever possible.

EcoVadis

EcoVadis is a globally recognized sustainability ratings provider that helps companies manage risk and compliance across the three ESG categories. EcoVadis measures Samskip’s sustainability performance across four key areas:

  • Environmental impact

  • Labor and human rights standards

  • Business ethics​

  • Sustainable procurement

Samskip in Iceland began assessing its performance with EcoVadis in 2020, earning a Silver rating in its first year. In 2023 and 2024, Samskip in Iceland achieved a Gold rating—the second-highest level in EcoVadis’ scoring system.

Samskip hf. certification for Iceland

❯❯ EcoVadis Gold · Top 5%

Samskip in Iceland began measuring its performance with EcoVadis in 2020, earning a Silver rating in its first year. In 2023 and 2024, Samskip in Iceland achieved a Gold rating—the second-highest level in EcoVadis’ scoring system.

Samskip Multimodal certification for Europe

❯❯ EcoVadis Platinum · Top 1%

Samskip Global achieved EcoVadis Platinum certification, placing our sustainability performance among the top 1% of companies assessed in 2024. This recognition reflects the strength and maturity of our sustainability approach.

FESTA · Center for Sustainability

Samskip is a member of FESTA, Iceland’s Center for Sustainability. FESTA aims to support its members in increasing their knowledge of corporate social responsibility and strengthening their ability to adopt responsible business practices.

Samskip has established environmental targets and reports its progress to FESTA.

Wetlands Fund

The role of the Fund is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the restoration of wetlands, in collaboration with landowners, the government, municipalities, companies, NGOs, and individuals. Research shows that drained wetlands are responsible for significant CO₂ emissions in Iceland. Wetland restoration is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change.

SideWind

SideWind aims to demonstrate the potential of wind power to reduce carbon intensity in the container shipping industry. The project introduces a new concept based on a recyclable, practical, and cost-effective vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT), horizontally mounted inside a wall-less container to harness the wind flowing over container vessels.

People & Social: Our People

At Samskip, we work systematically to ensure that our employees, customers, suppliers, and the communities connected to our operations experience safety and well-being. Our people lead projects, drive change, and foster innovation. Without their dedication and initiative, Samskip would not be able to deliver the high level of service our customers expect, nor achieve the success we have reached today. We believe in giving back to our people by providing the best possible working environment.

We recognize that our commitment to sustainability extends far beyond environmental impact. While many initiatives in the logistics sector focus primarily on environmental issues, we place equal emphasis on social responsibility and strong governance.

Our social initiatives are designed to improve the lives of our employees, customers, and the communities in which we operate. By prioritizing these areas, we create a positive impact on society and uphold the highest ethical standards.

  • Initiatives

  • Togetherness
  • Knowledge

1. Empowering a diverse workforce

At Samskip, diverse skills, perspectives, and backgrounds come together to drive innovation and create value for our customers. By fostering a workplace where diversity and equality are truly valued, we ensure that our services are shaped by a broad range of viewpoints—enhancing both the quality and sustainability of the solutions we deliver.

2. Safe and ethical working practices

Customer trust is fundamental to us. That is why we adhere to strict ethical standards and prioritize safety across all our operations. From our offices to our vessels, we continuously work to meet the highest requirements for workplace safety and responsible practices—so we can deliver our services with integrity.

3. Investing in skills for sustainable growth

We have established an anonymous reporting system that enables employees to raise concerns about suspected unethical or inappropriate conduct. Our aim is to create a safe working environment where everyone can speak up with confidence, knowing that issues will be handled responsibly.

4. Sustainable procurement and due diligence

We integrate sustainability across the entire value chain by working closely with suppliers worldwide to reduce carbon emissions and maintain high quality standards.

Human Capital and Equality

A positive work environment is important to us. A positive attitude among employees increases job satisfaction and well-being in the workplace. We emphasize open, trustworthy, and constructive communication.

Samskip believes in a philosophy of fair pay, meaning we strive to ensure that employees receive fair and equitable compensation that reflects the value of their contribution, skills, and experience. Within the group, we have a built-in remuneration philosophy that ensures employees are paid in a fair and competitive manner. Since 2020, we have operated in accordance with a certified equal pay system that meets the requirements of the Icelandic Standard IST 85:2012.

In line with our commitment to fair pay, we also strive to maintain equal opportunities in all other aspects related to employee development. This includes people management, promotions, training opportunities, and recruitment. As an equal opportunity employer, gender identity, race or ethnic origin, religion or belief, age, and sexual orientation do not influence our decisions when assessing candidates for roles at any level. Across all our locations, applicants are assessed based on their qualifications, knowledge, and experience relevant to the specific job description.

Work Environment and Values
A tidy, inspiring, and dynamic work environment is important to us. Samskip strives to provide exemplary working facilities. We believe it is essential that our employees feel comfortable and supported at work. We emphasize that our people are guided by Samskip’s values in their daily work.

Health, Safety, and Labor Rights
We are committed to promoting and protecting fundamental human rights and labor rights for our employees and everyone in our value chain. We believe that basic living conditions are essential, and we aim to ensure safe and fair working conditions for all.

Safety is our top priority, and we share a collective responsibility to comply with the highest safety standards. Our working environment always meets the requirements for occupational health and safety, good facilities, and a secure workplace. Employees are encouraged to take care of their health, and Samskip supports this through regular health check-ups and various health-related initiatives. Samskip is a smoke-free and substance-free workplace.

Employee Engagement and Development
We value our employees and recognize the importance of attracting and retaining talented professionals. We believe that investing in technical and professional skills is key to our success, particularly through training and education that support the future growth of our people.

At Samskip, we believe in the power of teamwork and collaboration. We know that when we work together, we succeed together. To achieve this, we place strong emphasis on employee engagement to create a positive and impactful workplace culture. We rely on an essential tool for this: employee satisfaction surveys. We use MoodUp surveys as a simple and interactive way to ensure that the voices of our employees are heard. These surveys are conducted quarterly, allowing the company to receive feedback, valuable insights, and opinions.

In 2025, the quarterly employee satisfaction surveys delivered an average score of 7.9 out of 10.

Social and Economic Inclusion
Samskip is committed to promoting social and economic equality for our employees and third parties. We believe that equal pay, empowerment, and opportunities regardless of gender or background are essential for all companies.

Human Rights and Data Protection
Every individual deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued. We stand against discrimination, and all forms of harassment are taken very seriously at Samskip. Through specific measures and procedures, we protect our employees from inappropriate behavior.

The total number of reported discrimination cases in 2023 was zero. While we are proud to share this result, we are also aware that this figure may not always fully reflect reality. Insufficient communication about policies or a lack of confidence in following them can have an impact. To address this, we ensure that diverse training and awareness initiatives are always available to all employees, and that a whistleblowing channel is in place.

Grants and Community Engagement
Samskip addresses a wide range of aspects related to social responsibility, such as environmental issues, occupational health and safety, energy matters, human resources, and sustainability. We have established policies in these areas and follow them closely to ensure they are integrated into our daily operations.

Each year, Samskip supports a variety of causes, including charities, cultural initiatives, and sports activities across the country. Special emphasis has been placed on supporting diverse initiatives connected to rural communities. We also participate in various industry associations and contribute to enhancing the reputation and development of our sector.

Examples of Projects and Organizations Supported by Samskip

  • Samskip has been a main sponsor of the Icelandic Handball Federation’s national teams (HSÍ) since 1998 – for nearly 28 years
  • Samskip participates in the EuroRAP project, where roads across the country are assessed for user safety, and results are used to advocate for improvements
  • Samskip has supported the Andrésar Andar Games in Akureyri for many years, where many promising skiers have “taken their first meters” on the slopes
  • Samskip supports the annual music festival “Aldrei fór ég suður” held in Ísafjörður during Easter
  • Samskip has been one of the major sponsors of the National Icelandic Horse Competition in recent years
  • Samskip supports various associations, sports clubs, and teams throughout the country

Governance

At Samskip, we believe that ethical and responsible business practices are essential to achieving long-term success. Through our policies and ways of working, we strive to foster a culture of open communication and feedback that meets our expectations for ethical conduct and contributes positively to a better society. We recognize that we rely on a wide range of suppliers and stakeholders throughout our value chain in our daily operations.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Our people reflect a rich diversity. We value the unique backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives that each individual brings to the table, and everything that contributes to our global success. We are committed to embracing and nurturing these differences, recognizing their role in strengthening our company and the communities we serve.

While there is still room for progress, together we are shaping a better future that upholds the right to social and economic participation for all.

Samskip works to engage with our suppliers on business ethics in order to extend responsible business practices across our entire value chain.

We will promote long-term sustainability by making sound financial decisions that support stable growth and the responsible use of resources. We emphasize transparency in our financial practices and ensure that all stakeholders receive accurate information about the company’s financial position.

We recognize our ethical responsibility as a major employer in the Icelandic business community. We conduct our business in an honest and transparent manner, in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. We establish clear policies on business ethics and implement action plans for their application and follow-up. Our leaders are responsible for ensuring that these policies are implemented and respected at all levels of the organization. We regularly review and improve our policies in line with new challenges and opportunities in our operating environment.

Responsible Business Practices

We are committed to making a positive and lasting impact on the environment through focused and meaningful actions. Our sustainability goals are aimed at reducing emissions, paving the way for cleaner transport solutions, and fostering a culture of responsibility.

Discover how our ambitious targets are guiding us toward an even more sustainable future — for both your business and our planet.

1. Ethics in Business Conduct

We emphasize making ethically sound decisions and protecting sensitive data through robust safeguards to prevent unethical conduct.

2. Sustainability Reporting (CSRD)

And other international standards ensure comprehensive and transparent sustainability reporting. Explore our progress in the Samskip Sustainability Report 2023 for insights into our sustainability journey.

3. Whistleblowing and Confidentiality

We have established an anonymous system that enables employees to report suspected unethical conduct without fear of retaliation. The goal is to ensure a safe and trusted working environment where every voice is heard.

Supplier Ethics and Conduct Guidelines

As the sustainability landscape in business continues to evolve, so too should our expectations of the companies we work with. We require our suppliers to familiarize themselves with and adhere to our Code of Conduct, and we strive to ensure that all partners involved in our collaborations work together to advance sustainability practices that benefit society.

Data Security

We place strong emphasis on ensuring the security of our customers’ data, our employees’ data, and our own data against cyberattacks and other threats in both the digital and physical environments.

Key initiatives and metrics include:

  • Distributing a CSR questionnaire and developing action plans for all suppliers by 2025
  • Implementing a grievance mechanism in addition to the existing whistleblowing process by 2025, covering our entire value chain
  • Ensuring ethical and responsible business practices, including secure and resilient future-focused data and cybersecurity systems
  • Launching cybersecurity and data protection training programs for our employees
  • 13 audits conducted in 2023, including within the sustainability ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) categories

Ethics

As the foundation of Samskip’s commitment to responsible business practices, we have established a range of policies and measures that define best practices and actions for those who work with us and across our value chain. Our Board of Directors and Executive Management oversee matters of business ethics and ensure integrity and ethical conduct throughout all operations. This framework is built on three core pillars:

  • Our Code of Conduct and related policies
  • Our approach to due diligence
  • Risk management and whistleblowing. Our comprehensive Code of Conduct covers a wide range of areas, from bribery to corruption, and is supported by our information and cybersecurity measures. We rely on this Code to demonstrate our commitment to responsible business and to ensure that all employees are guided by the same standards in applying these practices.

All Samskip employees are expected to uphold the following principles:

  • Comply with all applicable laws and regulations in each of Samskip’s areas of operation
  • Treat others fairly and with dignity and respect
  • Avoid all forms of corruption and bribery
  • Prepare all financial records accurately and with integrity
  • Report financial position and operating results honestly and without delay
  • Deal with customers, business partners, and suppliers in an honest and fair manner
  • Avoid actual and potential conflicts of interest
  • Respect and properly manage the data and information of our stakeholders

Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find answers to frequently asked questions about Samskip’s sustainability journey – our goals, actions, and plans. Whether you are interested in our environmental targets, company policies, or upcoming initiatives, this page provides clear insight into the areas we are continuously working on.

If you cannot find what you are looking for or require further information about Samskip’s sustainability efforts, you are welcome to contact our sustainability experts at marketing@samskip.com.

Samskip’s Sustainability Pledges

Samskip has set ambitious goals aimed at making a positive impact on the environment, our people, and the communities in which we operate, while continuing to deliver high-quality service to our customers.

These goals are structured around three core focus areas:
  1. Reducing the carbon footprint of our operations
  2. Developing and offering low- and zero-emission transport solutions
  3. Building a corporate culture that supports and celebrates sustainability
Across these three areas, we have defined nine key sustainability targets, including climate goals for 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2040, which have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Through its ambitious sustainability goals, Samskip aims to encourage everyone across its value chain to pursue continuous improvements in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance.

Our greatest impact is within the environmental domain, where we have made significant investments in an energy-efficient, multimodal transport network that leverages electric rail, short sea shipping, coastal routes, and road transport to reduce end-to-end carbon emissions.

In addition, Samskip has been a pioneer in the use of biofuels, both at sea and on land. However, achieving our targets requires going even further — which is why Samskip is now introducing the world’s first hydrogen-powered container vessels: the Samskip SeaShuttles.

Yes, Samskip operates a robust Sustainability Management System (SMS) that covers not only environmental management, but also social and governance (ESG) aspects.

The system used by Samskip Global is certified in accordance with the ISO 14001 standard and has received a Platinum rating from EcoVadis, placing Samskip Global among the top 1% of companies in the industry assessed in 2024. Samskip hf. in Iceland has received a Gold rating from EcoVadis.

Samskip is known for innovation and an entrepreneurial mindset. We have long been a key driver of the so-called modal shift in Europe — focusing on more efficient and environmentally friendly routes by integrating different modes of transport into a single, coordinated network.

Samskip has also been at the forefront of sustainable innovation. We demonstrated early leadership by investing in LNG, became the first in the industry to operate vessels on 100% biofuel, are developing carbon capture technologies, and most recently introduced the world’s first hydrogen-powered container vessels — the Samskip SeaShuttles.

Samskip’s multimodal transport network integrates rail, sea, and barge services to reduce reliance on road transport. This approach significantly lowers costs, increases efficiency, and can cut emissions by up to 80%. As a result, we create a more sustainable and flexible logistics network compared to solutions that rely solely on road transport.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Samskip’s strategy. We believe that by embedding sustainability at the core of our operations, we can create real and lasting impact.

Progress in sustainability is not achieved only in boardrooms, but through our employees putting it into practice in their daily work.

At Samskip, we believe that change is driven through collaboration, because when it comes to sustainability, we are all working toward the same goals. Our direct emissions are our customers’ indirect emissions — meaning that when we improve, our customers improve as well.

That is why Samskip places strong emphasis on partnership across all sustainability initiatives. Through innovative solutions such as the FlexFuel program, customers are given the opportunity to choose more sustainable energy sources and contribute to change today.

For further information, please contact your account manager or our sustainability advisors.

Sustainability Guiding Principles and Objectives

Samskip has already achieved a 10% reduction in total emissions in 2023 compared to our 2020 baseline year.

We have also set clear targets:

  • 50% reduction in emissions by 2030

  • Carbon neutrality (Net Zero) by 2040

Both our short-term (2030) and long-term (2040) targets have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Yes, both Samskip’s short-term and long-term targets have been formally validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

Samskip is listed on the SBTi website under “Companies Taking Action” — a list of companies actively engaged in climate action.

Emissions Accounting and Transparency

We use both the GHG Protocol Framework and the GLEC Framework (Global Logistics Emissions Council), which are recognized standards in the logistics sector for carbon accounting and reporting.

In addition to our efficient multimodal transport network, Samskip has invested in a range of initiatives aimed at reducing GHG emissions:

  • Biofuels for both vessels and trucks

  • Hydrogen-powered container vessels (under construction)

  • Electric trucks (e-trucks) and port tractors

  • Onshore power supply for vessels in port

  • Carbon capture technology

Yes, Samskip provides CO₂ reporting at the shipment level through a carbon footprint calculator available both on our website and via our account managers.

This gives our customers clear insight into the environmental impact of their shipments.

Looking to reduce your impact even further? Through our FlexFuel program, we offer sustainable energy alternatives — please contact your account manager or our sustainability team for more information.

Global Certifications and Recognitions for Performance

Samskip hf. received a Gold rating from EcoVadis in both 2023 and 2024.
Samskip Global received the highest possible EcoVadis rating in 2024 — Platinum.

EcoVadis is a leading global sustainability ratings provider that annually assesses company performance across a wide range of sustainability criteria. In the assessment, Samskip was benchmarked against other companies in the logistics sector. The results showed that Samskip in Iceland ranked among the top 5% of companies assessed in 2024, while Samskip Global ranked among the top 1%.

Yes, Samskip Global holds ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 certifications, which support quality and professional management practices across our management systems.

We are proud to be active members of four key organizations in the logistics and shipping sector: KVNR, the UK Chamber of Shipping, UIRR, and the Smart Freight Centre.

By staying connected to the global logistics and maritime community, we remain informed, agile, and ready to deliver outstanding service to our customers.

Sustainable Energy and Zero-Emission Transport

Samskip aims to implement energy sources that contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions across its operations.

Current energy sources include:

  • LNG (liquefied natural gas): Used in 2 of 21 vessels

  • Biofuels for vessels: Used in 5 of 21 vessels

  • HVO 100 biofuel: Used in trucks — based on customer requests

  • Hydrogen: In 2026, Samskip will deploy two hydrogen-powered SeaShuttle vessels, replacing conventional fossil-fuel-powered ships

Compliance and Regulatory Framework

We closely monitor regulatory developments and integrate new requirements into our operations. We invest in cleaner and more sustainable technologies, maintain strict environmental standards across our entire value chain, and work with partners and authorities to stay ahead of regulatory changes.

Our teams regularly track sustainability-related legislation and policy developments to ensure full compliance and transparency.

Samskip is actively preparing for compliance with several key regulatory sustainability initiatives.

These include:

  • CSRD – Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive

  • CSDDD – Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive

  • EU Taxonomy – The EU sustainability classification system

  • FuelEU Maritime – Regulations promoting cleaner energy use in shipping

  • EU ETS – The European Union Emissions Trading System

We are committed to meeting these requirements while also using these initiatives to strengthen our sustainability strategy and enhance its long-term impact.

Learn more in Samskip’s latest Sustainability Report.

Sustainable Value Chain

Samskip works closely with its suppliers to align operations with the company’s sustainability goals. We apply strict selection criteria, conduct regular audits, and have established a Supplier Code of Conduct that emphasizes environmental, social, and ethical responsibility.

In addition, we monitor supplier performance through dedicated CSR questionnaires, ensuring that sustainability is a shared responsibility across the entire value chain.

Sustainability Lead

  • Ágústa Hrund Steinarsdóttir

    Ágústa Hrund Steinarsdóttir

    Forstöðumaður markaðs- og samskiptasviðs

    Forstöðumaður markaðs- og samskiptasviðs