In 2024, European shipping emissions surged by 13%, reaching their highest levels since 2018. This rise, driven by disruptions in the Red Sea and increased containership speeds, underscored the sector’s vulnerability. Agathe Peigney from Transport & Environment emphasized the urgency for effective emissions regulations amid persistent fossil fuel reliance.
The livestock carrier Spiridon II has offloaded nearly 3,000 cattle in Benghazi, Libya, after being stranded off Turkey for over a month. The voyage, which began in Uruguay, resulted in numerous animal deaths, prompting the Animal Welfare Foundation to demand an investigation into potential MARPOL violations and the welfare of remaining livestock.
A significant diplomatic contest is underway at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters, where Kenya is vying to retain its council seat against Nigeria and South Africa. This election, part of the 34th Regular Session, highlights tensions in Category C, aimed at ensuring diverse geographic representation in maritime affairs.
Nigerian anti-drug authorities have detained 20 Filipino seafarers after recovering 20 kilograms of high-grade cocaine from a Panama-registered vessel at Lagos’s main port. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) stated the cocaine was hidden beneath coal cargo. Investigations are ongoing as the crew is questioned about the ship’s route.
MISC Group has signed contracts to build two LNG dual-fuel Suezmax tankers through AET, enhancing its fleet renewal and energy transition strategy. These vessels will operate under long-term charters, improving financial stability and supporting growth. This move underscores MISC’s commitment to cleaner shipping solutions and aligns with global net-zero goals.
A significant fire broke out on the containership ONE HENRY HUDSON at the Port of Los Angeles on November 21. All 23 crew members were safely evacuated. The incident prompted nearly 200 emergency responders to tackle the flames, which spread through multiple lower decks, causing substantial operational disruptions at the port.
Korean researchers have achieved a milestone with the world’s first real-world verification of a Maritime Internet of Things (MIoT) communication network. This innovation enhances maritime safety and connectivity by enabling data exchange between sensors and devices on ships and ports, addressing critical challenges in maritime communications and continuous environmental monitoring.
The UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch reported on an incident involving the fast rescue craft (FRC) of the ferry Lord of the Isles. During a training exercise on August 23, 2025, the FRC was unintentionally launched, falling 9 meters into the water. Fortunately, there were no injuries, but the craft was irreparably damaged.
Australian Border Force officers in Beijing intercepted over 600,000 illegal vapes worth $30 million, preventing them from entering Australia. This operation followed referrals of nearly 70 high-risk containers, often mislabelled as harmless items. Acting Commander Laura Uttley highlighted the importance of international collaboration in disrupting illicit goods before they reach the border.
Maritime Launch Services (MLS) has completed its second rocket launch, marking its first commercial attempt. Although it fell short of the 100-kilometer target, the mission advanced Canada’s sovereign launch capabilities. The Barracuda rocket successfully delivered a symbolic payload to the edge of space, despite some local notification concerns. CEO Stephen Matier hailed it a “complete success.”
Maritime investigators are raising alarms about the dangers of free-fall lifeboats after a serious incident involving the bulk carrier Golden Zhejiang. A crew member suffered life-altering injuries when a lifeboat unexpectedly released during a safety check. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada emphasizes the need for improved safety protocols.
Windward’s Remote Sensing Intelligence (RSI) technology combines satellite imagery, RF detection, and vessel-tracking analytics for enhanced maritime monitoring. Its ability to identify vessels not transmitting AIS signals is vital for maritime security, ensuring compliance with regulations. This innovative solution allows authorities to assess and respond to potential threats effectively.
Consilium Safety Group and Hyundai Heavy Industries have signed a memorandum to integrate AI-powered cameras into maritime fire alarm systems. Utilizing Hyundai’s HiCAMS technology, the collaboration aims to enhance smoke and flame detection. A pilot test on the Sawasdee Sunrise vessel in Korea is underway, focusing on improving safety on container ships.
The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation and AIM Horizon Investments have launched the Fund for Energy Efficiency Technologies, raising $35 million to support vessel retrofits. This innovative fund, featuring a pay-as-you-save model, aims to tackle financial barriers in adopting energy-efficient technologies, enhancing sustainability in the maritime sector.
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to Rondal for its innovative Aero Wing Sail, following a comprehensive assessment aligned with LR’s Guidance Notes on Wind Assisted Propulsion Systems. This milestone, presented at Metstrade 2025 in Amsterdam, marks significant progress in sustainable marine technology for large yachts and multihulls.
