The U.S. Coast Guard is enforcing new cyber security rules in the maritime industry, sparking discussions on the importance of cyber security preparedness. Angeliki Zisimatou from ABS sheds light on the draft rules and advises vessel owners on the potential implications. ABS aims to educate stakeholders on the real threats.
SCHOTTEL Marine Technologies unveiled a report at the Floating Offshore Wind Exhibition in Aberdeen, showcasing the potential of its Swift Anchor technology. The study, conducted with industry experts, revealed up to 12% LCoE savings and 2% carbon emissions reduction. CEO Dirk Schulze is confident in the technology’s impact on the floating offshore wind market.
Regulators and shipping experts will gather in Rotterdam this November to discuss redesigning shipping containers to prevent invasive pest contamination. The conference, hosted by IPPC, will focus on eliminating spaces where pests could gather during voyages. Participants will explore design changes and treatments to minimize risks, emphasizing ‘Custodial Responsibility’ to prevent pest spread in global trade.
Greece has recently joined the Clean Energy Marine Hubs initiative, alongside organizations like the World Economic Forum and OCIMF. The initiative, proposed by ICS and IAPH, aims to support the development of infrastructure for low-carbon fuels in the maritime sector. This partnership aims to drive economic growth and emissions reduction through public-private collaboration.
The shipping industry is shifting towards LNG as a fuel source, with 2% of the global fleet now powered by LNG, projected to increase to 4% or 6% based on current orders. The growth has been significant, from 21 ships in 2010 to 590 in operation worldwide, with 564 more on order by 2028.
Ocean Infinity, a marine technology company, has made history by receiving a Statement of Compliance (SOC) from DNV for its remotely supported vessel operations. This milestone establishes them as the first organization in the industry to meet the required standard for large vessels, setting the stage for onshoring marine tasks and activities.
In a recent interview, Matthew Williams, Secretary General of IMPA, discusses challenges in maritime pilotage, focusing on pilot ladder issues. Non-compliance rates with pilot transfer arrangements have raised concerns, leading to IMPA launching a Safety Campaign. Williams stresses the importance of compliance and safety, as well as the impact of technology on pilotage safety.
The Hong Kong Chamber of Shipping (HKCoS) launched on October 7, aiming to enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international maritime center. Key leaders emphasized collaboration among local businesses, government, and education, while addressing challenges like geopolitical tensions and decarbonization. HKCoS will foster a sustainable ecosystem for global trade and shipping.
Imperial College London and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) have partnered to drive innovations in zero-carbon shipping and achieve net-zero port emissions. Through collaboration on digital technologies and talent development initiatives, they aim to lead the way in decarbonizing the maritime sector and creating a sustainable future for global shipping.
Gasum, a Nordic energy company, has partnered with Wasaline to create a commercial FuelEU Maritime pooling service. This initiative aims to help conventional fuel vessels save on compliance costs as the FuelEU Maritime regulation comes into effect in January 2025. The regulation targets ships over 5,000 gross tonnage.
Human rights groups are closely monitoring the Kathrin, a cargo ship suspected of carrying explosives for Israel. Denied docking privileges in Namibia, the Balkans, and Malta, the vessel is being urged to change course by Amnesty International. Loaded in Vietnam, the ship’s destination and cargo’s intended use remain unclear amid international scrutiny.
Brazil’s Federal Police seized a large amount of cocaine on a bulker anchored offshore in Maranhao state. The crew discovered suspicious packages and alerted authorities, leading to an investigation. The vessel, named Jawor, was scheduled to dock for a soybean cargo destined for Spain. The police suspect crew involvement in the smuggling operation.
Eni has partnered with Avenir LNG to charter the LNG bunker vessel Avenir Aspiration, supporting its growth in the LNG bunkering market. The vessel will supply LNG to ships, meeting environmental standards. This move reflects Eni’s commitment to sustainability and decarbonization in the maritime sector, promoting cleaner fuels for a greener future.
Nearly seven weeks after Houthi terrorists attacked the tanker Sounion in the Red Sea, satellite data shows that the fires on the vessel have finally been put out. The ship was left adrift after the attack on August 21, with subsequent fires burning for weeks until Greek salvors began firefighting efforts on September 23.
The autonomous electric ferry MF Estelle made history by completing a successful journey between two major islands in central Stockholm, showcasing the potential for unmanned sustainable transport. Remote-operated from 600 kilometers away in Trondheim, Norway, this ferry marks a milestone in autonomous shipping technology with plans for fully self-driving operations in the future.
