News items selected for weekly newsletter
The number of recycled ships has dropped by 42% year-on-year, reaching the second lowest level in 16 years due to high freight rates and strong demand. Fleet renewal has been limited, with only 45 ships recycled so far this year. Despite challenges, ship recycling is expected to rebound as market conditions normalize.
The ITF and JNG have implemented the Non-Seafarers’ Work Clause to improve seafarer safety by assigning tasks like lashing and unlashing cargo to trained dockworkers. This reduces physical strain, fatigue, and the risk of accidents. By following this clause, companies can create a safer maritime industry and promote a better working environment for seafarers.
Kenya has 11,000 seafarers, as recent statistics indicate, prompting government efforts to streamline the sector. President’s directives include expediting Seafarers Identification Document production. Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has appointed a Seafarers Wages Council. Recent evacuations of abandoned seafarers highlight ongoing welfare concerns, with calls for engagement with registered agencies.
At a recent oil industry conference, shipping companies emphasized LNG as a growing choice for low-carbon marine fuel to reduce emissions. Despite its potential, challenges in transitioning to greener fuels like bio-LNG and green methanol exist due to competition. The shift to LNG is crucial for decarbonizing the shipping sector, but affordability and availability of alternatives pose obstacles. Collaboration and innovation are key for a sustainable transition.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways appointed Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker as their brand ambassador, leveraging her shooting prowess and maritime background. Minister Sonowal hailed Bhaker’s role in promoting India’s marine sector, aiming for self-reliance by 2047. The event honored women like Lt. Commander Joshi for their contributions to nation-building.
During the 20th Maritime State Development Council meeting in Goa, significant advancements for Indian shipping were announced. The launch of the Indian International Maritime Dispute Resolution Centre and the Indian Maritime Centre aims to enhance the country’s maritime industry. Plans for a Mega Shipbuilding Park and progress on the Sagarmala program were also highlighted.
Auramarine, a fuel supply systems pioneer, has launched an Ammonia System to support decarbonisation goals in the marine industry. With expertise in green strategies, the system ensures safety and compliance with regulations. CEO John Bergman highlights the importance of ammonia in achieving net zero shipping and anticipates deliveries in 2026.
ABS and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) have joined forces to develop and certify innovative systems for next-generation, zero-carbon ships. Their focus includes advanced LNG cargo handling, ammonia fuel supply, and integrated re-liquefaction systems. This collaboration aims to lead the industry towards sustainable shipping and reduce carbon emissions through cutting-edge technology.
The maritime sector is on the brink of a digital revolution with advancements in AI and connectivity solutions like Starlink. AI-driven analytics enable precise decision-making for fleet managers, predicting maintenance needs and optimizing fuel consumption. High-speed connectivity at sea enhances safety, efficiency, and crew well-being, aligning with sustainability goals and setting new industry standards.
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has released a report urging the rationalization of alarms on ships to enhance crew welfare and reduce safety risks from alarm fatigue. LR and partners have formed an industry task force to evaluate alarm system approaches. The Danish Maritime Fund is funding this initiative to manage the increasing number of alarms due to digitalization in maritime operations.
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) recently released the second edition of Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Guide to International Regulatory Compliance. This comprehensive guide addresses maritime emissions issues, including CII regulations for the tanker sector. It features a new chapter on the EU ETS and explores the link between GHG emissions and underwater noise reduction measures.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the Tuticorin International Container Terminal in Tamil Nadu as a beacon of India’s marine infrastructure, boosting capacity at V.O. Chidambaranar Port. With state-of-the-art amenities and a focus on gender diversity, the terminal is set to reduce logistics costs and contribute to India’s maritime development goals.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has issued draft criteria for new courses focusing on training for seafarers on electric-propelled vessels. The guidelines outline minimum learning requirements for safety and technical skills, aiming to help seafarers keep up with technological advancements in electric propulsion. Feedback on the criteria is being collected through a consultation process until 20 October.
The Lloyd’s Open Form Default Clause has been launched in collaboration with key stakeholders in the shipping industry to provide clarity on contracting emergency and non-standard tug services. This aims to streamline procedures, enhance communication between shipowners and underwriters, and restore confidence in LOF as a vital contract for maritime safety.
A consortium led by the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) successfully conducted ship-to-ship ammonia transfers at the Port of Dampier in Western Australia. The pilot operation involved two transfers between the tankers Green Pioneer and Navigator Global, highlighting the feasibility of using ammonia as a marine fuel and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping industry.
