News items selected for weekly newsletter
Anti-whaling activist Paul Watson, detained in Greenland and facing possible extradition to Japan, seeks political asylum in France. Founder of Sea Shepherd, he was apprehended for disrupting a Japanese ship in 2010. With a possible 15-year prison sentence, Watson denies allegations while his foundation pleads for asylum in France. Uncertainty looms as legal battles continue.
WinGD has introduced the X-DF-P engine option, allowing its ammonia-fuelled engines to also run on LPG. This ‘pre-fit’ solution is designed for vessels involved in ammonia and LPG trades, offering flexibility and efficiency. With engine deliveries starting in 2027, this innovation aligns with the industry’s focus on cleaner fuels and sustainability.
Greek shipowners have shifted their investment focus towards newbuild gas vessels, spending around $18 billion since 2021. The majority of this investment, approximately $13.8 billion, has been allocated to LNG vessels, with an additional $4 billion spent on LPG vessels. This strategic move reflects their anticipation of increased demand for gas.
The latest report from Lloyd’s Register’s Maritime Decarbonization Hub highlights significant progress in the maritime industry’s shift towards zero-carbon fuels. Advancements in fuel handling technologies and ship readiness show a promising transition to sustainable fuels like ammonia, hydrogen, methanol, and biofuels. The global fleet is increasingly prepared to meet 2030 emission targets.
WISTA International celebrated its 50th anniversary by launching an equity fund and welcoming new national organizations. Keynote speeches by Cypriot officials highlighted the association’s dedication to gender equality in the maritime industry. With over 5,200 members worldwide, WISTA aims to promote diversity and sustainability while supporting women in shipping.
Four more Filipino crew members of the missile-hit M/V Minoan Courage have been repatriated, bringing the total to 11 out of 21. The Department of Migrant Workers confirmed their safe arrival in Manila on October 13. Efforts are ongoing to bring the remaining seafarers back home with necessary support and financial assistance.
The Indian Maritime Centre (IMC) recently held its inaugural meeting, electing Devki Nandan as Chairman and Shankar Shinde as Vice Chairman. Capt Sankalp Shukla was appointed Secretary, and Capt Vikas Vij as Treasurer. R Ravi Kumar of IPPTA was named acting CEO. The board approved membership applications from ACTO and IR Class.
The Sea Cheetah, a revolutionary hydrogen-powered flying vessel by Miami-based startup Sea Cheetah, aims to transform travel with zero-emission capabilities. Utilizing ground effect technology over water, it increases range and reduces energy consumption. With a ship classification in the US, it promises a quicker commercial rollout. Safety concerns are being addressed for its success.
According to DNV’s Expert report, India has the potential to become a hub for green shipbuilding with the focus on alternative fuels and renewable energy. Indian shipyards are being modernized to meet the global demand for green maritime assets. The government encourages investments and technology transfer from Japanese and Korean shipyards.
Columbia Group is transforming its crewing department into a Maritime HR Department to enhance crew management and development. Capt Faouzi Fradi will lead this change, emphasizing the need to adapt to the evolving maritime industry. The new department will focus on talent management, career development, and welfare to support seafarers throughout their careers.
The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) unveiled groundbreaking rules for floating nuclear power plants at a nuclear industry forum with the Idaho National Laboratory. ABS showcased the potential of nuclear energy in maritime applications, emphasizing energy optimization and decarbonization. The event featured discussions on reactor technologies and regulatory frameworks for floating nuclear power plants.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) recently conducted the 16th Joint Oil Spill Exercise (JOSE) to test new oil spill response technologies. Over 100 personnel from 18 agencies and companies participated in the exercise, showcasing new tools like the KOBOT oil recovery robot and a laser oil-stain cleaning device.
A project led by OGCI, GCMD, and Stena Bulk assessed the feasibility of onboard carbon capture in shipping. REMARCCABLE found retrofitting OCCS on the Stena Impero could reduce CO2 emissions by 20% annually with minimal fuel penalty. Initial costs are high, but further research could make OCCS more viable. Collaboration is key to overcome challenges.
Russia and India are set to collaborate on constructing four non-nuclear icebreakers, with a projected cost of $713 million. The vessels will bolster Rosatom’s fleet in the Northern Sea Route. India, through talks with state-owned and private shipyards, aims to strengthen ties with Russia amid supply chain disruptions caused by Western sanctions.
Mitsubishi Electric and Finland’s VTT are collaborating on a research project to capture CO2 from oceans. By addressing ocean acidification, the initiative aims to protect marine ecosystems and fishing industries. With a focus on CO2 removal technology, the project aims to safeguard vulnerable ecosystems and achieve zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2051.
