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Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the natural partnership between India and the UK, emphasizing shared values of democracy and freedom. In discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, they announced military training cooperation and committed to enhancing maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, aiming to strengthen ties in trade and defense.
Next week, the UN’s International Maritime Organization will make a historic move by adopting a global carbon pricing framework for the shipping industry. This regulation aims for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, introducing mandatory limits and encouraging emissions reductions through economic measures. The framework is poised to revolutionize climate efforts in maritime activities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), a key project enhancing air connectivity in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Operated by a Public-Private Partnership, NMIA seeks to alleviate congestion at the existing airport, positioning Navi Mumbai as a global aviation hub with eco-friendly initiatives.
Shipping has always been a diverse industry, uniting individuals from various cultures. Elpi Petraki, President of WISTA International, stresses that inclusion is vital for tackling challenges like decarbonization. As the sector shifts towards sustainable fuels, collaboration and a diverse workforce will be essential for innovative solutions and a greener future.
ABB has signed a term sheet with SwitcH2 to deliver automation and electrification solutions for a floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) unit off Portugal’s coast. This facility will produce green ammonia from green hydrogen, addressing the demand for low-carbon marine fuels while utilizing renewable energy and advanced integrated control systems.
International Maritime Organization Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez expressed deep sorrow over the death of a seafarer following the Houthi forces’ missile attack on the MV Minervagracht. He condemned the aggression against commercial shipping as violations of international law, emphasizing the need for peaceful dialogue to protect maritime workers and global trade.
Heads of seven shipping associations, including Danish Shipping, are urging the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to adopt its Net-Zero Framework (NZF) in October. They warn that failing to do so could complicate the green transition and create inconsistent regional climate regulations, undermining global efforts toward climate-neutral shipping by 2050.
Laurent Cadji has announced an expansion of a charity initiative supporting Nigerian seafarers. The program aims to provide education, training, and mentorship, addressing the challenges faced by sailors. Emphasizing investment in maritime communities, Cadji seeks to cultivate a resilient workforce and acknowledge the essential role of seafarers in Nigeria’s evolving maritime sector.
In the coming decade, maritime insurance is set to evolve from a reactive tool to a proactive supporter of seafarer safety. Industry leaders stress the importance of prioritizing crew welfare, enhancing operational efficiency, and integrating safety measures into policies. This shift aims to improve the lives of those working at sea.
Experts at the IMO caution against biofuels for decarbonizing shipping due to concerns over food security and supply constraints. They advocate for a focus on scalable technologies like wind propulsion and renewable electricity-based e-fuels. The Micronesian Center for Sustainable Transport warns that reliance on biofuels risks environmental integrity and food supplies.
Hanwha Ocean of South Korea has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by completing the world’s first ship-to-ship transfer of liquefied natural gas (LNG) during sea trials off Geoje Island. This operation, involving the vessels Maran Gas Syros and Woodside Jirrubakura, underscores advancements in LNG transport technology and clean energy shipping.
A Japanese government-backed project has achieved a remarkable 98% reduction in methane emissions during tests on the bulk carrier Reimei. Initially targeting a 70% reduction, the initiative, supported by NEDO, utilized advanced methane oxidation technology. Ongoing evaluations aim for commercialization by FY 2027, marking a significant step in climate action.
Seafarers faced a harrowing ordeal, held captive for nearly ten months by two African nations. Enduring torture and mistreatment, their experience raises urgent concerns about the safety of maritime workers. Their release in May 2023 from the vessel Heroic Idun underscores the pressing need for stronger protections and regulations in the industry.
The Indian government is focusing on a world-class shipping cluster in Dugarajapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, with an investment of ₹26,000 crore. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal announced that the project will support around 5,000 direct jobs, enhancing the state’s maritime initiatives and fostering economic growth through improved logistics and infrastructure.
Shipping Corporation of India Limited (SCI) plans to invite tenders for medium-range crude oil vessels soon, as announced by Chairman Capt. Binesh Kumar Tyagi. The initiative aims to reduce India’s dependency on foreign ships for crude imports, with a goal of acquiring 112 domestically owned crude oil carriers.
