British oil and gas giant Shell has settled a lawsuit with environmental group Greenpeace in London. Greenpeace will pay 300,000 pounds to the RNLI and stop protests at four Shell sites in the North Sea. Shell cited safety risks, while Greenpeace claimed Shell settled due to public relations concerns.
RightShip, a digital maritime platform focusing on ESG, has adjusted its vessel inspection age trigger timeline, lowering the threshold from 14 to 10 years in a four-phase process. Industry feedback, including from INTERCARGO and ICS, played a key role in refining the approach. The phased implementation allows for smoother adjustments and additional inspector accreditation.
The Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has achieved a major milestone by handling 55 million metric tonnes of cargo in just 249 days, surpassing previous records. With collaboration from various stakeholders, VPA is on track to meet its annual target of 90 MMT for the fiscal year 2024-25.
The Dutch cargo ship Amadeus Gold ran aground in Odense Fjord on its way to Odense from Rotterdam. Efforts to refloat the vessel are ongoing with the help of three assisting ships. Despite challenges posed by the narrow route and shallow waters, the focus remains on safely freeing the stranded freighter to prevent environmental impact.
After two days of intense firefighting, the cargo fire on the bulker Langeland in the Canary Islands has finally been brought under control. Despite initial efforts by the crew, the fire reignited the next morning, sending thick smoke into the air. An investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the blaze.
Hycamite TCD Technologies, MOLEA, and MOL PLUS have joined forces to promote methane-splitting technology for onboard power generation in LNG-fueled ships. This innovative approach converts methane into hydrogen while sailing, creating a negative carbon footprint. With plans to launch an industrial-scale plant in 2025, Hycamite is driving innovation in maritime decarbonization.
Austal Philippines has successfully delivered a 32-meter catamaran named ‘Ocean Master’ to Rottnest Fast Ferries in under twelve months. The vessel, designed by Incat Crowther, underwent sea trials in November 2024 before being accepted by representatives. President Wayne Murray praised the team for exceeding expectations in constructing high-quality vessels efficiently.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with the Vietnam Society of International Law, organized a seminar on the BBNJ Agreement under UNCLOS to commemorate its 30th anniversary. Experts discussed key provisions, implementation mechanisms, and the agreement’s role in achieving SDG 14. Vietnam is actively involved in the agreement’s negotiation and preparation for ratification.
The closure of the river Mosel in western Germany, a key transportation route for grains and rapeseed shipments, has caused concerns for traders. With the lock at Mueden damaged until spring 2025, alternative transportation methods are being considered. The blockage of 70 ships may lead to delivery disruptions, impacting the flow of goods.
The Lok Sabha introduced the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024 to revolutionize India’s maritime industry. Led by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the bill aims to expand vessel ownership, enhance security measures, promote international trade, and ensure environmental protection. This legislative move highlights the government’s commitment to modernizing and strengthening India’s maritime presence.
The maritime industry is shifting towards decarbonization, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Measures like the EEDI and SEEMP have led to new operational performance indicators and a push for alternative fuels. The human element is key, along with Collaboration, technology, training and leadership are crucial to achieving sustainability goals.
A service boat with six crew members experienced flooding in its machinery space while heading to a vessel at anchor. Despite efforts to fix the leak, the water level rose, leading the crew to abandon ship into a liferaft. Another boat rescued them, highlighting the importance of emergency skills and preparedness at sea.
The International Seafarers’ Welfare & Assistance Network (ISWAN) reported a surge in seafarers seeking help for violence, bullying, and discrimination on ships. Calls to the helpline increased due to crew abandonment, mental health issues, and abuse at work. The industry faces challenges like fake recruitment agencies, harassment, and discrimination, with reports of abuse rising by 28%.
A joint study by GCMD and BCG projects annual CO2 shipping volumes in Asia-Pacific could reach 100 MtPA by 2050. Shipping plays a crucial role in facilitating cross-border CCUS initiatives in the region. Governments in APAC are actively pursuing partnerships to support CO2 transportation and sequestration.
Alphard Group recently celebrated its 15th anniversary at a heritage hotel in India, honoring its journey from a startup to a leading provider of maritime solutions. With a focus on quality and innovation, the company aims to expand its services globally and prioritize sustainability in the maritime sector.
