A plan is underway to make sure the new locks at the Panama Canal will be open for transits in the beginning of 2016, according to the Canal Administrator Jorge L. Quijano.

Quijano hosted Maersk Line delegation led by Søren Skou, CEO of Maersk Liner Business, within the framework of the centennial celebration, to provide an update on the Expansion Program and discuss the future trends in the maritime industry.

The delegations discussed topics of strong mutual interest such as the environment, efficiency of maritime services and economies of scale.

“The Canal’s fuel-saving shortcut has reduced the maritime carbon footprint for a century, beginning long before pollution and global warming became an issue,” Panama Canal Authority (ACP) said in a release.

Panama Canal Expansion

The expanded Canal will permit the transit of bigger vessels through the waterway that will allow for a more efficient connectivity and savings through economies of scale.

“Maersk, through the improvement of the efficiency in their vessels design, operating procedures and other efforts to obtain substantial reductions in fuel consumption has become a leader in promoting a cleaner environment. For Maersk, Panama’s route is vital because it reduces time and fuel consumption,” ACP added.

These efforts have resulted in less health-damaging pollution today as well as for future generations by reducing CO2 emissions. Both parties concurred that the “green” concept is here to stay and is an important part of each organization’s future.