In a pioneering pilot project at the Steinweg Beatrix Terminal in Rotterdam, Cargow ships were connected to moveable battery containers for shore power. The initiative, testing feasibility when standard connections are unavailable due to grid limitations, indicated success. Despite higher costs, the technology will be used in areas without electricity access.
NYK and TB Global Technologies Ltd. (TBG) have received approval in principle from ClassNK for their ship-to-ship supply of fuel ammonia. The key feature of their system is an emergency-release mechanism developed by TBG. NYK shared design data for their ABV and provided expertise on handling ammonia, gained from operating Japan’s first LNG bunkering vessel.
The Pioneer tanker, sanctioned by the US for its ties to Russian LNG, recently passed through the Suez Canal. Owned by Zara Shipholding Co, its LNG source and destination remain undisclosed. Shippers avoid the Suez due to security risks, impacting global trade routes and fuel deliveries. US sanctions target companies involved in Russia’s Arctic LNG 2 project.
Unionized workers at the Port of Montreal have launched a three-day strike at key terminals, halting 40% of container traffic. The Port Authority laments the economic impact of $90.7 million per day and warns of consequences for importers and exporters. The standoff reflects the challenges of labor negotiations in a crucial industry for Canada’s economy.
In a high-profile environmental crimes case at sea, two companies involved in illegal discharge from the Panama-registered tanker P/S Dream were convicted in federal court in New Orleans. Captain Abdurrahman Korkmaz was sentenced to eight months in prison for his role in the conspiracy. The crew’s actions highlight the importance of enforcing maritime laws.
A tragic incident at Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela saw an oil barge operated by a PDVSA contractor sink, resulting in at least four deaths. 19 individuals were rescued. This is the latest in a series of accidents involving oil barges transporting Venezuelan oil. Concerns about safety measures and environmental impact are raised, urging better protocols.
Maine Ocean Farms is investing in electric workboats and fast charging technology for oyster farming, with support from the US Department of Energy. Partnering with Aqua superPower and Maine Clean Communities, they aim to showcase sustainable practices and drive environmental change in the aquaculture industry. This initiative sets a positive example for others.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) released a report on the tragic death of a sailor on the bulk carrier Equinox Seas. The incident occurred during maintenance at a shipyard when the sailor fell into an open ventilation shaft. Safety deficiencies and poor communication between shipyard and crew were identified as contributing factors.
The International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAOH) has released a report on the progress of decarbonization of port infrastructure in developing nations ahead of the IMO’s 82nd MEPC session. The report, prepared by Maritime & Transport Business Solutions (MTBS), focuses on case studies of ports in Kenya, Indonesia, Solomon Islands, Brazil, and India
Israeli warplanes recently launched airstrikes on a seaport and power plants in Yemen in response to Houthi rebel attacks on central Israel. The strikes targeted oil infrastructure in Hodeidah and Ras Issa, with no immediate casualties reported. This reflects ongoing tensions between Israel, the Houthi rebels, and Hezbollah in the region.
The recent annual meeting of the International Whaling Commission in Peru saw member states reconfirming the ban on commercial whaling, despite efforts by pro-whaling countries to lift the moratorium. The European Union’s resolution to strengthen the ban was adopted, while the proposal for a South Atlantic whale sanctuary was once again blocked.
The Malta-registered cargo ship, Ruby, carrying 20,000 tons of ammonium nitrate, faced challenges finding a safe port after being denied entry to multiple countries. Media attention followed its movements as it anchored off the coast of Kent, England, awaiting refueling. Authorities in Malta insisted on unloading the cargo before allowing the vessel into port.
The US Coast Guard is investigating a potential oil spill at the Port of Baltimore after a 50-by-50-foot sheen was reported near a Liberian-flagged bulk carrier. A safety zone was established around the vessel as officials work to determine the cause and prevent further harm to the environment. Aerial surveys are ongoing to assess the situation.
The European Sea Ports Organization (ESPO) and The Federation of European Private Port Companies and Terminals (FEPORT) are pushing for an EU-wide mandatory tax exemption for shore power in the revised Energy Taxation Directive. They argue that this exemption is crucial to support the European Green Deal and the polluter pays principle.
A tragic incident at Lake Maracaibo saw an oil barge sink, leading to two deaths and four missing individuals. PDVSA clarified the situation, attributing the accident to adverse weather conditions. Despite the grim outcome, 19 people were rescued. This event adds to a series of mishaps involving Venezuelan oil barges.
