The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) in the UK has launched a new Innovation Hub in Southampton to drive advancements in ocean technology and support sustainable growth in the blue economy. With a £200,000 investment, the facility will act as a hub for innovation in marine autonomous systems and the broader blue economy.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, revealed plans for a port modernization program with the Nigerian Ports Authority focusing on Apapa and Tincan Island ports. This initiative aims to enhance port infrastructure, reduce turnaround time, and address challenges in the maritime sector. Oyetola emphasized the importance of a holistic approach.
Wärtsilä introduces a methane slip reduction solution for its Wärtsilä 50DF dual-fuel engine, converting it to spark gas operation. This technology reduces methane emissions by up to 75% compared to the standard engine, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly. Chevron is already onboard with converting engines on its LNG carriers to spark gas.
Thousands of Greeks gathered in Athens demanding higher wages amidst rising living costs. A one-day strike halted ferries, flights, and trains. Despite economic growth, many struggle to cover basic needs. Workers call for significant pay raises. The government plans to raise the minimum wage but remains cautious due to high debt.
OEG Energy Group (OEG) has launched GEOBASE, a revolutionary solution for maintaining dimensional control on offshore vessels. This tool streamlines calibration processes, standardizes measurements, and verifies sensor accuracy, reducing errors and delays during surveys. Developed by OEG’s team, GEOBASE is the industry standard for vessel geometry assurance, offering precise positioning data for critical offshore operations.
The guide from the Centre for International Law at the National University of Singapore urges governments to collaborate with companies to enhance maritime awareness and track tankers in the dark fleet. By developing computer platforms and capabilities, coastal states can better monitor and manage maritime activities to ensure safety and security at sea.
In 2025, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) faces geopolitical tensions, security challenges, digitization, and decarbonization. Their goal is safe, efficient, sustainable shipping through international regulations and technical support. Milestones include joining conventions on ship recycling, fishing vessel safety, and reducing emissions. Mandatory regulations and initiatives support member states to meet ambitious decarbonization targets.
The Nordic Association of Marine Insurers (Cefor) recently released its 2024 hull and machinery coverage report, revealing a surge in claim costs per vessel post-pandemic. Major claims exceeding $50 million increased by 22% compared to previous years, attributed to the industry’s shift towards larger vessels. Machinery damage, fires, and collisions were highlighted as leading causes of losses.
Bound4blue has successfully installed the world’s largest suction sails on the MV Atlantic Orchard, a juice carrier chartered by Louis Dreyfus Company. The eSAILs® were fitted during the vessel’s survey in Spain, ensuring compliance with FuelEU Maritime regulations and achieving fuel consumption savings of around 10%. This marks bound4blue’s third successful installation this year.
DNV Maritime Advisory has confirmed that Jotun coated vessels helped avoid 11.1 million tons of CO2 emissions in 2024. This achievement was verified through a technical evaluation using the DNV MASTERv2 emission prediction model combined with AIS data. Jotun also provided data on average speed loss over a five-year drydocking cycle to support the findings.
The sixth round of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC) is now open for bidders until April 16, 2025. This UK government-funded initiative aims to support the maritime industry in achieving net zero emissions. UK-registered organizations can apply for a share of a £30 million fund to develop innovative clean maritime technologies and skills.
The Sustainable Maritime Fuels Collaborative (SMF Collaborative) has been launched in the Pacific Northwest to promote sustainable maritime fuels and zero-emission technologies. With support from key organizations, the initiative aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, aligning with international climate goals to enhance the region’s competitiveness in the global shipping industry.
Maersk and the Panama Canal Authority have joined forces to explore the use of Stillstrom’s offshore charging technology to reduce emissions from vessels around the canal. This partnership aims to improve air quality, reduce carbon footprint, and promote sustainable shipping practices on major trade routes. The collaborative effort highlights a commitment to environmental sustainability.
A non-qualified engineer tragically lost their life to an electric shock while trying to fix a mud pump system in Port Fourchon. The incident on October 14, 2023, was found to be caused by material failure and security deficiencies. The US Coast Guard investigation highlighted the importance of proper training and safety protocols.
Hydrogen, whether green or not, is criticized for its lower energy density compared to traditional maritime fuels. Despite challenges in storage and transportation, the environmental benefits drive interest in hydrogen as a maritime fuel. Innovations aim to improve energy density and make hydrogen a sustainable choice for the industry’s future.
