In 2025, the shipping industry is facing the challenge of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to comply with regulations set by the International Maritime Organization. The Carbon Intensity Indicator rating is becoming stricter, with the EU ETS likely to see price increases. Ship owners are turning to LNG, biomethane, and e-methane as cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternatives.
The 2024 edition of the Getting to Zero Coalition’s Annual Progress Report on Green Shipping Corridors showcases advancements in sustainable practices. With 18 new initiatives globally and progress in existing ones, the trend is promising. Urgent government action is needed to overcome obstacles, with a call for public support and innovative commercial arrangements.
Juan Matias Gil, a search and rescue officer with Médecins Sans Frontières, criticized Italian laws and policies as unsustainable for their operations on the ship Geo Barents. Italian politicians accused organizations like Doctors Without Borders of encouraging illegal migration by providing rescue services at sea. This clash reflects a larger debate.
The Nella Dan, a cherished research vessel launched in 1961, epitomized dedication to the sea, completing 124 voyages over 26 years. Tragically grounded in December 1987 and later scuttled, her legacy endures through the Friends of Nella Dan, who preserve her memory and contributions to Antarctic exploration.
WinGD has achieved a significant milestone by successfully running its X-DF-M methanol-fuelled engine design on over 95% methanol fuel at full load. This testing took place at the CMD testbed in Shanghai, marking a major step towards using methanol as a primary fuel for marine engines.
The offshore support market is poised for growth in 2025, driven by increasing demand for OSVs in the oil & gas sector and offshore wind industry. While some regions like the golden triangle and the Middle East are expected to thrive, others like Northwest Europe and Southeast Asia may face challenges.
Negotiations are ongoing between a local representative for a Chinese fishing vessel and tribal elders representing pirates who seized the boat off the coast of Somalia. The demand for the release of the crew members is now set at $10 million, with reports suggesting possible inside involvement in the incident. EU forces are investigating the situation.
NYK has partnered with ENEOS to purchase marine fuel with CO2 removal credits from 1PointFive’s STRATOS Direct Air Capture plant in Texas. ENEOS will supply these credits and fuel to NYK for five years starting in 2028, supporting decarbonization efforts in the maritime industry. This collaboration highlights a shift towards cleaner energy solutions in shipping.
The council has updated Operation ATALANTA’s mandate to enhance maritime security in Somalia, the Gulf of Aden, the West Indian Ocean, and the Red Sea. The goal is to combat piracy and illicit trafficking at sea by strengthening regional maritime security. Collaboration with Operation ASPIDES and rebranding the Maritime Security Center will further bolster these efforts.
Eastern Shipbuilding Group (ESG) has commenced cutting steel for the first of four advanced escort tugs for Saltchuk Marine, with delivery scheduled for 2026. ESG’s Chairman Joey D’Isernia is thrilled to construct these cutting-edge vessels, while Saltchuk Marine’s CEO Jason Childs praises ESG as the perfect partner for their harbor tugboat project.
DNV has introduced competence standards for methanol and a recommended practice for ammonia to address safety risks in the maritime industry. With a growing number of vessels ordered with alternative-fueled capability, it is crucial for shipboard crew to have the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure safe operations.
Wärtsilä, a technology group, is leading the way in supporting the marine industry’s decarbonization efforts. They secured an order to supply a complete propulsion package for a methanol-ready cement carrier vessel, the world’s largest of its kind. This partnership with NovaAlgoma showcases Wärtsilä’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the maritime sector.
Greenpeace ships are a powerful symbol of strength for supporters worldwide, leading various campaigns and expeditions. The newest addition, Oceania, and the Greenpeace Australia Pacific office have been pivotal in raising awareness in remote locations. From the Arctic to the Amazon coast, the crew’s dedication to environmental activism shines through their actions.
The 109th session of the Maritime Safety Committee at IMO Headquarters in London focused on amendments to IGC and IGF Codes, addressing toxic fuel use and ship design safety. Progress was made on a regulatory framework for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships, with plans for a mandatory MASS Code by 2032.
The deadline for the 2024 IMO-WISTA Women in Maritime Survey is approaching, with only two weeks left to participate. This survey aims to showcase gender diversity progress in the maritime industry. All types of maritime companies are encouraged to take part for accurate results. The survey results will be released on May 18, 2025.
