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The Mumbai Port Trust is welcoming visitors from December 14 to 20, 2024, to discover the port’s rich cultural and historical heritage. With Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal’s announcement, tourists can explore the pivotal role the port has played in shaping Mumbai as India’s commercial capital since 1873. This initiative promotes sustainable tourism.
The Maritime Shipping Bill in India aims to elevate the country’s ship recycling industry, potentially surpassing Bangladesh. Reforms in the Merchant Shipping Bill seek to streamline vessel registration, attract investments, and improve operational clarity. With projected growth, India aims to secure a larger market share by enhancing infrastructure, implementing green facilities, and ensuring compliance.
The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is proposing new amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention to better support seafarers. These changes include internet access at sea and improved dietary requirements. The consultation period for industry feedback is open until January 22, 2025, with the amendments set to take effect on December 23, 2024.
Generative AI, or GenAI, uses large language models to create new text, images, or tunes based on existing data patterns. AI has deep roots dating back over half a century. ABB Marine & Ports leads in applying AI to enhance maritime efficiency, safety, and decarbonization. Collaboration is crucial to maximize AI benefits.
OneCare Group (OCG) has partnered with RightShip’s Zero Harm Innovation Partner Programme to prioritize seafarers’ mental health and professional development. Through their collaboration, OCG aims to empower seafarers with resources to handle the unique pressures of maritime life, ensuring their safety, health, and mental resilience. The OCG Mobile App provides 24/7 access to health resources.
DNV has approved a new liquid hydrogen containment system for long-distance transport. The CryoVac panel system, using prefabricated hexagonal steel panels, offers efficient containment without compromising steel integrity. The unique design aims to construct prismatic tanks that conform better to a ship’s hull, meeting the global demand for safe and cost-effective hydrogen shipping solutions.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized the importance of preserving India’s maritime heritage at the India Maritime Heritage Conclave 2024. The event brought together key ministers and experts to highlight India’s seafaring history and global influence. Prime Minister Modi and Minister Sonowal also reiterated India’s commitment to preserving maritime heritage and sustainable development.
Lomar Labs and Mythos AI are joining forces to test cutting-edge AI technologies for the shipping industry. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and sustainability, this collaboration aims to revolutionize maritime navigation. By combining expertise in autonomous systems and maritime sustainability, the partnership is paving the way for the future of shipping solutions.
In three weeks, the shipping industry will face the most significant regional legislation in decades with the launch of FuelEU Maritime on January 1. This new legislation aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and will impose strict emission intensity requirements on ships over 5,000 gross tons within the European Union.
India’s Vice President, Jagdeep Dhankhar, emphasized the crucial role of India’s maritime sector in achieving the country’s goal of becoming the world’s third-largest economy. With strategic location and advanced infrastructure, India is poised to be a maritime powerhouse. Dhankhar highlighted the sector’s potential to drive economic growth and capitalize on the global blue economy.
The Maritime Labour Convention 2006 has proposed new amendments to improve seafarers’ living and working conditions. These changes, open for consultation, aim to address lessons learned from the Covid-19 pandemic. The amendments focus on seafarers’ health, diet, financial protection, and connectivity with loved ones. Feedback on the proposed changes is welcome until January 22.
RightShip, a digital maritime platform focusing on ESG, has adjusted its vessel inspection age trigger timeline, lowering the threshold from 14 to 10 years in a four-phase process. Industry feedback, including from INTERCARGO and ICS, played a key role in refining the approach. The phased implementation allows for smoother adjustments and additional inspector accreditation.
Hycamite TCD Technologies, MOLEA, and MOL PLUS have joined forces to promote methane-splitting technology for onboard power generation in LNG-fueled ships. This innovative approach converts methane into hydrogen while sailing, creating a negative carbon footprint. With plans to launch an industrial-scale plant in 2025, Hycamite is driving innovation in maritime decarbonization.
The maritime industry is shifting towards decarbonization, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Measures like the EEDI and SEEMP have led to new operational performance indicators and a push for alternative fuels. The human element is key, along with Collaboration, technology, training and leadership are crucial to achieving sustainability goals.
The International Seafarers’ Welfare & Assistance Network (ISWAN) reported a surge in seafarers seeking help for violence, bullying, and discrimination on ships. Calls to the helpline increased due to crew abandonment, mental health issues, and abuse at work. The industry faces challenges like fake recruitment agencies, harassment, and discrimination, with reports of abuse rising by 28%.
