Our behavioural compass
Our behavioural compass (Code of Conduct) not only reflects the values and goals of the MF Shipping Group, but also integrates the principles of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) to promote sustainability and corporate social responsibility.
Positive impact on the environment and society
As a ship manager operating in international waters, we go further than simply complying with the international maritime provisions of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and the national requirements of flag states. Instead, we actively strive to make a positive impact on the environment and society by means of our business operations. Our management systems are regularly audited by classification societies, and as a tanker manager, our company and systems are audited twice annually by energy companies.
Our strength lies in proactive compliance with new regulations and provisions, acting as pioneers in industrial initiatives wherever possible. We are therefore active board members of leading associations such as the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), European Community Shipowners Association (ECSA), Intertanko, KVNR, BIMCO, MACN, and ISWAN.
Environmental awareness and sustainability
We do not simply regard environmental care to be a compulsory aspect; it is anchored in our corporate culture and this translates into continuous efforts for improvement. As an experienced ship manager, we are determined to contribute to international targets to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases and to combat pollution. We implement various measures and continuously optimise our corporate process to achieve these targets.
Our approach includes not only technological innovations on board our later vessels, but also a broad focus on environment management within our entire fleet. A dedicated environmental department monitors the environmental performance of all our vessels on a daily basis. We keep a close watch on important performance indicators, including fuel consumption per nautical mile and the carbon footprint per transport job.
Ensuring energy efficiency of vessels
Our crew members play a crucial role in ensuring the energy efficiency of our vessels, as they are responsible for operation of the systems on board. We strive to increase their awareness and to continuously encourage them to make improvements by providing them with insight into the performance of our vessels.
An important instrument to increase that awareness is our automatically generated journey log with KPIs. This report is regularly sent to the captain, superintendent and operator. It enables us to react alertly to any increasing trends in fuel consumption, by immediately taking corrective measures.
Promoting environment-friendly practices
The data which we collect, analyse and report, is shared with all stakeholders, including the crew on board, shipowners, operating companies, charters, authorities and ports. By collaborating closely with all involved parties, we are focused on change and we contribute to sustainable shipping for a future-proof planet. This focus lies not only on compliance with legislation, but also the desire to set an example in the maritime sector by promoting and implementing more environment-friendly practices.
Corporate social responsibility and well-being
The corporate social responsibility of MF Shipping Group is undeniable, with specific focus on the well-being of our employees and partners. Our HR policy not only ensures a safe working environment, but also promotes equal opportunities and supports diversity and inclusivity. The success of our organisation is directly linked to the well-being and satisfaction of our employees, and we strive to create a working environment in which everyone has a say and is encouraged to realise their full potential.
Our involvement with employees can also be seen in the relationship maintained via collective and individual agreements, in accordance with local legislation. We respect and promote international human rights and labour rights. During our annual courses and Company Days, we always emphasise our commitment to diversity, gender equality and our efforts to achieve a fair and respectful working environment.
Important elements of our corporate social responsibility:
- Safe working environment: Our HR policy ensures a working environment in which safety has priority. We recognise that a safe environment is essential for the well-being of our employees.
- Equal opportunities and diversity: We strive for equal opportunities for all our employees, and support diversity and inclusivity. Our corporate culture is based on respect for each other and for individual differences.
- Education and development: We offer learning and development opportunities to ensure that our employees can achieve their full potential. By regularly offering training courses and company days, we continue to work at growth and education.
- Freedom of association: We respect the individual right to freedom of association and we maintain constructive relationships with our employees via collective and individual agreements, in accordance with local legislation
- International human rights and labour rights: Our relationship extends further than national borders, whereby we respect and actively promote international human rights and labour rights.
- Diversity and gender equality: We apply a zero tolerance policy towards intimidation, bullying or discrimination.
Our corporate social responsibility reaches further than our organisation alone, and includes various charitable institutions and projects which contribute to the welfare of broader society. We support initiatives such as the MFG Seafarers Fund, ISWAN, Mission to Seafarers and WISTA, as well as local projects such as the Red cross, the food bank, cultural events and local sports clubs.
Governance and business ethics
Our business ethics and governance principles are interwoven with ESG standards. Our organisation is certified according to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) and we apply a zero tolerance policy towards corruption, bribery and money laundering. It is an essential aspect of our policy that our employees comply with all applicable laws and provisions with regard to such issues.
Our dedication to fair competition is explicitly recorded in specific clauses within commercial agreements. We avoid exaggerated luxury, excessive gifts, entertainment or invitations from our clients. Our employees are strictly forbidden to offer or accept monetary gifts or equivalents, either directly or indirectly.
As an active member of the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN), we work to eliminate maritime corruption. We do so by raising awareness, by implementing an anti-corruption policy and by collaborating with stakeholders to tackle the underlying causes of corruption. Our employees are trained via anti-bribery courses to ensure that they are familiar with the latest developments, and are aware of their responsibilities.
General behaviour
Our daily operations are steered by our code of conduct and core values. We are determined to embody the values at all levels, from management to employees, and we cherish the trust placed in us by our commercial partners.
We are open to improvements and suggestions, and we encourage our employees to react to our policies. Open communication is essential in order to continuously improve our practices and to maintain a positive and ethical corporate culture.
Learn more about the launch of the Thun resource in November 2023
Project management
Reliable technical management is key to the success of business continuity and essential for the safety of seafarers.
We take a personal approach, are progressive & manage a diverse fleet
Moving Forward together
Explore the diversity of our fleet and find out more about our vessels.
Safe & sustainable
Crew management looks after the human side of our vessels, from recruitment and crew planning to regulations and cost management.
