Crucial Seafarers’ Training Required to Comply with G20’s Global Biofuel Alliance Standards

Indian seafarers need specialized training to operate and maintain ships powered by alternative fuels and energy-efficient technologies, according to Capt. Bjorn Hojgaard, CEO of Anglo-Eastern Shipping Group. He believes that India has the potential to position itself as a key player in the global maritime industry’s sustainable future. The recently launched Global Biofuel Alliance aims to accelerate the adoption of biofuels worldwide and could generate opportunities worth $500 billion for G20 countries in the next three years. The Getting to Zero Coalition, a global alliance committed to shipping decarbonization, aims to have commercially viable zero-emission vessels in operation by 2030.

Hojgaard estimates that by 2030, around 450,000 seafarers worldwide will require additional training, with at least 800,000 by the mid-2030s sailing on ships with alternate propulsion technology. The adoption of alternative fuels and energy-efficient technologies demands a skilled workforce capable of operating and maintaining these systems. To ensure successful and sustainable operation of ships, seafarers must be well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the green energy transition.

Hojgaard emphasizes the need to review and reform international maritime laws and regulations to address the challenges of the green energy transition. Updating these policies will allow the ship manning sector to adapt to industry needs and support the implementation of sustainable practices. India, with its skilled officers and ratings, has the potential to contribute significantly to the green energy transition in the ship-manning sector.

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