The European Commission has launched a new call for proposals, offering co-funding of up to €1.7 million to enhance Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) cooperation within the EU. This initiative, supported by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, aims to tackle challenges in the Atlantic and Black Sea regions.
Woodside Energy Trading Singapore has secured a sale and purchase agreement with Japan’s JERA for liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply during peak winter months. The deal commits Woodside to deliver three LNG cargoes annually, totaling 0.2 million tonnes over five years, enhancing the long-term supply relationship between the companies.
The U.N. Security Council has requested Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to provide monthly updates on Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, despite Russia’s call to shift focus to Caribbean maritime issues. U.S. officials reaffirmed the importance of monitoring Houthi threats to protect international navigation and maintain global peace and security.
Stakeholders have welcomed the Kenya Maritime Authority’s recent announcement on seafarer trading regulations, emphasizing amendments to the STCW Code, particularly in Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities training. Industry professionals view these updates as essential for enhancing seafarer welfare, improving training standards, and ensuring a safer maritime environment in Kenya.
The health of the UK’s coastal waters will be innovatively assessed through a partnership between The Crown Estate and the GB Row Challenge. As teams row over 2,000 miles, they will collect vital marine data on pollution and biodiversity, merging athleticism with environmental research for marine conservation.
The Panama Canal Authority and Monjasa have formed a five-year partnership to boost community initiatives in the Panama Canal Watershed. This collaboration focuses on environmental protection, education, and community development, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Key projects will also address decarbonization and enhance community engagement.
The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has revised its Unified Requirement UR M78, introducing vital safety standards for ammonia-fueled marine engines. This update is essential for the maritime industry’s decarbonization efforts, incorporating enhanced risk analysis, gas recovery systems, and improved safety measures to support the transition to zero-carbon fuels.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is inviting applications for new licenses to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) as marine fuel. This initiative, open to both current and new licensees, emphasizes comprehensive LNG supply chains and adherence to international decarbonization goals, with applications due by March 27, 2026.
Egyptian authorities rescued twelve crew members from the cargo ship Fener, which was at risk of sinking near Port Said. After encountering severe weather, the captain reported a breach and a 10-degree list. The Suez Canal Authority deployed tugboats for the operation, ensuring all crew were safely evacuated without disrupting canal traffic.
The World Shipping Council (WSC) has welcomed Höegh Autoliners as a new member, enhancing its representation in the vehicle carrier sector. WSC President Joe Kramek expressed enthusiasm, noting the importance of vehicle carriers in global trade. Höegh’s commitment to zero-emission shipping aligns with WSC’s goals for sustainability and safety.
The European Union is funding a cross-border initiative in the Øresund region to enhance carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies. With a budget over $1.4 million, this project aims to create a Danish-Swedish collaboration platform, integrating CCUS into the regional energy system for sustainable fuel production.
NAVTOR is enhancing efficiency and cost savings for Redningsselskapet by providing its NavFleet fleet management solution free of charge. This partnership aims to optimize operations for Redningsselskapet’s 59 vessels through intelligent planning and monitoring, leading to improved vessel utilization and significant cost savings through informed decision-making.
Dalian Shipbuilding Industry Co., Ltd. (DSIC) has unveiled a new wind-assisted 175,000 m³ LNG carrier, receiving Approval in Principle from Bureau Veritas. This vessel features a hybrid propulsion system with foldable wing sails, promising over 5% energy savings and a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions, aligning with global decarbonization efforts.
Vattenfall has made significant strides on the Nordlicht offshore wind cluster, poised to become Germany’s largest wind project. With construction set to start later this year, the first phase, Nordlicht I, will generate 980 MW, followed by Nordlicht II at 630 MW, both operational by 2028, bolstering renewable energy supply.
South Africa recently executed a rescue operation, saving 21 fishermen from the burning trawler, Silver Dorado. The National Sea Rescue Institute responded to a mayday call after the crew abandoned ship near Noordhoek. Nearby vessels assisted, ensuring all crew members were safely recovered and medically assessed post-rescue.
