Japan’s ClassNK has granted approval in principle (AiP) for Oshima Shipbuilding’s bulk carrier concept, designed for alternative fuels like ammonia, methanol, and LNG. The vessel includes onboard carbon capture and storage capabilities. This approval reflects the industry’s commitment to meeting stricter emissions regulations while ensuring safety and technical feasibility.
The Marshall Islands Marine Resources Authority has initiated Operation Nightwatch, enhancing maritime enforcement against “dark” vessels in its Exclusive Economic Zone. This initiative, in partnership with Starboard Maritime Intelligence and Vantor, significantly reduces response times to illegal fishing, safeguarding marine ecosystems and national revenue across over two million square kilometers.
On December 25, 2023, the Panama-flagged bulk carrier Genius Star XI experienced two major fires caused by improperly secured lithium-ion battery cargo during severe weather. An NTSB investigation revealed failures in securing equipment, resulting in cargo shifts and thermal runaway in several battery units, highlighting risks in maritime lithium-ion transport.
Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases Group has unveiled a high-pressure fuel gas supply system (FGSS) to power cleaner, more efficient ships. Capable of exceeding 420 bar, this system supports the transition to lower-carbon fuels like LNG and hydrogen, enhancing maritime sustainability and reducing emissions significantly.
The derelict freighter Fusion has partially sunk in Puerto Montt, raising diesel pollution concerns. Located less than 100 feet from shore, containment booms have been deployed to prevent contamination. A specialized pollution control team is managing the situation, while an investigation into the incident’s causes has begun.
Poland’s inaugural offshore wind auction allocated 3.4 GW of capacity, marking a significant advancement for renewable energy amid regional challenges. Contracts, awarded for 25 years, ranged from 476.88 to 492.32 zlotys per megawatt-hour. This initiative is pivotal as Poland shifts from coal and aims for energy independence.
SAAM Towage has secured the PAS 2060 certification for carbon neutrality in Brazil for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability. The company actively reduces emissions and offsets them through carbon credits, aiming for further greenhouse gas reductions by 2030. This sets a new standard in maritime environmental practices.
HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) showcased its innovative technologies at the MIT Maritime Consortium Workshop 2025, focusing on AI-driven autonomous operations and carbon reduction. Key developments included the HiNAS Control system and a prototype AI model for cybersecurity. The consortium outlined a roadmap emphasizing carbon neutrality and digital transformation.
Ukrainian drones targeted a tanker in Rostov-on-Don, causing casualties and a significant fire, as confirmed by the city’s mayor. Emergency teams are battling the blaze, while regional governor Yuri Slyusar reported injuries among the crew. Fortunately, an oil leak was averted, but damage to nearby structures was extensive.
French authorities are probing potential foreign interference after discovering remote-access malware on the Italian-operated ferry, Fantastic, in Sète. The Remote Access Trojan (RAT) enables hackers to remotely control systems. Two crew members were arrested; one remains in custody. Officials suspect an organized attempt to compromise the ferry’s data systems.
According to Veson Nautical’s 2025 End-of-Year Market Report, shipowners face significant trends for 2026. Earnings in containers and tankers may decline due to renewed Suez transits. Newbuild deliveries will increase supply, while older vessels face penalties. The tanker market will split, impacting crude and product tankers differently. Demolition activity is expected to rise.
Recycllux, a Romanian start-up founded by Sorina Uleia in 2021, is innovatively tackling marine plastic waste using AI. With support from BlueInvest, the company empowers local communities to detect and collect plastic debris through satellite imagery analysis. Their approach combines technology and community involvement, promoting sustainable recycling practices across the Mediterranean.
Shipping giants Hapag-Lloyd and North Sea Container Line (NCL) have secured a tender to use low-emission fuels derived from hydrogen for container ships starting in 2027. Hapag-Lloyd plans to fuel five large vessels with 70,000 metric tons of e-methanol, while NCL will use 25,000 tons of e-ammonia for a smaller ship.
In the third quarter of 2025, Danish ports set new records with 137,000 TEU containers arriving and 122,000 TEU shipped out. APM Terminals’ Aarhus facility led this surge, bolstered by expanded shipping routes from Maersk and MSC, enhancing Denmark’s position as a crucial hub for Nordic container freight.
Venezuela has formally accused the United States of “maritime piracy” following the seizure of a Venezuelan oil shipment in international waters. Foreign Minister Yvan Gil condemned the US actions as a “flagrant violation” of international law and demanded the return of the oil and the release of the crew. Tensions escalate.
