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.
Northern Offshore Services has taken a significant step towards sustainability in the offshore industry with the introduction of the world’s first biomethanol-powered crew transfer vessel. The M/V Transporter, designed for efficient transportation of technicians and light cargo, represents N-O-S’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and advancing decarbonization efforts in the industry.
Researchers from MIT and Georgia Tech have determined that burning heavy fuel oil with scrubbers in the open ocean can be as environmentally friendly as using low-sulfur fuels. Lead author Patricia Stathatou emphasized the importance of using objective data to compare options accurately. The study revealed that scrubbers reduce sulfur dioxide emissions by 97%.
The Panama Canal Board of Directors has approved the bidding process for a new energy product pipeline. This project aims to enhance the Canal’s infrastructure and competitiveness by offering an alternative to sea transportation. The transparent bidding process will attract qualified companies to manage the pipeline, ensuring operational efficiency and modernization of the Canal.
The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in Muscat is seeking maritime artefacts from citizens to preserve Oman’s seafaring legacy. They are looking for traditional ships, photographs, maps, and more related to Oman’s maritime history. The collected items will enhance the upcoming Maritime History Museum in Sur, showcasing Oman’s rich heritage and boosting tourism.
Telenor Maritime and Quvia are teaming up to explore the benefits of artificial intelligence in improving backhaul performance and digital experiences for maritime industry users. The collaboration aims to optimize bandwidth usage and enhance connectivity services for cruise and ferry operators, passengers, and crew. This partnership signifies a significant step towards leveraging AI to drive innovation.
