A new maritime safety centre in Athens, supported by ABS, will equip seafarers for challenges in the evolving shipping industry. With a focus on workforce readiness, the Hellenic Ship Safety Center will use immersive training techniques and virtual reality to address emerging safety issues like dynamic fuels and cyber risks.
RightShip and ZeroNorth have joined forces to combine their solutions, aiming to improve vessel performance and emissions management. By integrating RightShip’s GHG 2.0 Rating and Safety Score with ZeroNorth’s CII Emissions Analytics, users will gain a comprehensive view of their fleet’s efficiency and environmental impact. This collaboration supports the maritime industry in meeting carbon reduction goals and promoting sustainability.
MARINA is launching online services for seafarers and stakeholders on July 1 to digitalize government transactions. QR codes will streamline processes in the maritime sector, enhancing efficiency. MARINA director Marc Anthony Pascua emphasized the importance of these services, including the Blockchain-Enabled Automatic Certification System (BEST) to prevent fraudulent documents and protect Filipino seafarers’ rights and welfare.
Maersk, a global indicator of world trade, raised its profit forecast due to disruptions in the Red Sea that have impacted global supply chains. The company now expects adjusted earnings of $7-9 billion, higher than the previous forecast. Analysts view the profit increase as temporary relief, with high prices expected to continue.
The Clean Hydrogen Partnership and Japan’s NEDO have signed a cooperation agreement to accelerate the deployment of hydrogen technologies globally. This milestone agreement aims to promote joint research and demonstration projects in electrolysis and hydrogen carriers. It builds on 15 years of bilateral cooperation and aligns with efforts to address energy transition and climate change challenges.
Regulations in the maritime industry are becoming more complex, making it challenging to understand and enforce them. Martin Crawford-Brunt, CEO of Lookout Maritime, highlighted the growing difficulty at the Capital Link conference. With upcoming additional costs for FuelEU voyages, the industry is facing a maze of rules. Despite differing opinions on compliance methods, the industry aims to achieve sustainability goals amidst regulatory complexities.
The Port and Free Zone of Sohar have implemented biofuel in tugboat operations, aiming to enhance marine sustainability and decrease carbon dioxide emissions. B20, a blend of 80% diesel and 20% biofuel, was used for the tug Sohar as a trial, making Sohar one of the first ports in the Middle East to use biofuel for tug operations. Impressive collaboration occurred in the biofuel bunkering process, with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 17% and supporting Oman’s vision of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
The IMO International Day for Women in Maritime 2024 celebrates progress in gender equality in the industry. Despite advancements, unconscious bias remains a challenge. Efforts to promote women in maritime roles are ongoing, with organizations like WISTA International and companies like Wallem leading the way. Continued commitment to inclusivity and equality is essential for a diverse and thriving maritime future.
Survitec stresses the importance of proper maintenance and inspection of ship fire safety systems in a new white paper. With a rise in fire-related deficiencies during inspections, the company highlights the need for industry-wide regulation to prevent disasters. Director Metkel Yohannes emphasizes the role of accredited service partners in ensuring ship safety and avoiding potential disasters.
The crude oil tanker market faces challenges due to an ageing fleet in need of replacement. Shipyards focus on building other vessel types. Trafigura orders five new VLCC tankers to modernize its fleet. The market requires around 1,100 new crude oil tankers, including 400 VLCCs, to meet demand. Trafigura sees potential growth in this segment.
Ron Salo, a Kabayan Party-list representative, is renowned in the maritime industry for championing the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers. Influenced by his Pangasinan roots and personal experiences, Salo advocates for seafarers’ rights. His dedication extends to migrant workers’ welfare, reflecting his commitment to creating a just society. Salo’s efforts highlight his passion for maritime education and social justice.
Korean officials celebrated the commissioning of Tamhae 3, South Korea’s first domestically-built geophysical exploration research vessel, at Pohang Yeongilman Port. The vessel, a collaboration between Norway’s Ulstein Design and Korea’s HJ Heavy Industries, took eight years to complete and received a government investment exceeding $130 million. With cutting-edge features like the X-Bow design, Tamhae 3 aims to enhance South Korea’s research capabilities.
Greece and France have signed a declaration of intent to strengthen their maritime economies. The agreement includes collaboration on offshore wind energy projects, upgrading ports to meet environmental standards, and joint actions in the shipping sector. Both countries are committed to promoting sustainable practices, protecting the marine environment, and complying with international standards in their maritime activities.
Maritime officials in Cameroon recently completed a national training course by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance their skills in administering seafarer training and certification. The training focused on implementing the STCW Convention to improve safety and competence standards. This initiative, supported by government and private stakeholders, aims to boost the maritime sector in Cameroon and promote gender balance.
Data from the first quarter of 2024 reveals the harsh working conditions faced by seafarers, with increased risks due to geopolitical tensions. The International Bargaining Forum designated the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden as ‘Warlike’ zones after a fatal missile attack, while Somali piracy incidents resurged. SeafarerHelp saw a rise in seafarers seeking assistance for contractual issues and ABHDV, highlighting the urgent need for industry unity in protecting seafarers’ rights and welfare.
