The Australian government has awarded a contract for the decommissioning of the outdated FPSO vessel, Northern Endeavour, to Danish firm MARS, igniting local criticism. Unions argue for domestic recycling, citing safety and economic benefits. Despite claims of inadequate local facilities, the government insists on prioritizing safety and environmental standards.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal met Denmark’s Minister Morten Bodskov to enhance maritime cooperation, resulting in a bilateral agreement for a Centre of Excellence in Green Shipping in India. This initiative supports the Green Strategic Partnership, aligning with India’s Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, focusing on sustainable maritime practices and innovation.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will embark on a crucial five-day official trip to Norway and Denmark starting June 2. Leading a Team India delegation, he will attend a High-level Meeting on Oceans at the Nor-Shipping event, where he will inaugurate the ‘India Pavilion’ and promote the upcoming ‘India Maritime Week 2025’.
In May 2025, the Danish Geodata Agency strengthened maritime ties with Ghana through a week-long training initiative. Focused on enhancing digital navigation and safety on Lake Volta, the program equipped local authorities with vital skills in satellite mapping and data collection, fostering a collaborative approach to navigational safety and sustainability.
Authorities in Denmark have greenlit the world’s first test program for “remote pilotage,” allowing ships to be guided without an onboard pilot. This innovative system, developed by Danelec in collaboration with DanPilot, enhances safety, reduces fuel consumption, and maintains navigational safety, marking a significant advancement in maritime technology.
The Kassø e-methanol facility in Aabenraa, Denmark, has opened as the world’s first large-scale commercial site for e-methanol production. Developed by European Energy and Mitsui & Co., it aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions, supplying major clients like Maersk with sustainable fuel for their operations.
Denmark’s Scandlines is set to launch a pioneering hybrid-electric ferry, known as Futura, currently in trials in Turkey. This vessel, the first in its fleet for zero-emission operations, features a 10 MW battery, enabling efficient travel between Rodbyhaven and Puttgarden. Designed for versatility, it accommodates freight and passengers alike.
Denmark plans to enhance its shipping industry by allocating nearly $1 billion to support cargo ships amid rising global tensions. This initiative activates the War Insurance Institute, providing coverage when private insurers withdraw. With a focus on maritime security, the proposal will be presented to Parliament in 2025 for approval.
Denmark recently released anti-whaling activist Paul Watson from detention, rejecting a Japanese extradition request over decade-old charges. Watson, founder of Sea Shepherd, expressed relief and gratitude for the overwhelming support he received. The decision was based on various factors, including the age of the case and uncertainties about potential sentence deductions.
Denmark has taken a significant step towards protecting its marine environment by introducing a bill to ban the discharge of scrubber water into its territorial waters. The decision, effective July 1, 2025, aims to reduce harmful substances in the marine ecosystem and aligns with efforts by other countries to promote sustainable shipping practices.
The ShippingLab in Denmark launches the SLGREEN project, aiming to support sustainable ship operations with a DKK 31 million investment. Over three years, the project will focus on predicting ship performance, managing biofouling, monitoring engine wear, digital piloting, and improving crew comfort. Partners include Danish Maritime Fund, DS Norden, and Lauritzen Fonden.
The Danish government has announced a ban on discharging scrubber water from ships into Danish waters starting July 1, 2025. Scrubber use has been linked to harmful substances in seawater. Ships must transition to low-sulfur fuel or closed scrubbers by 2025. Denmark aims to regulate maritime areas with regional conventions and push for international regulations.
Danske Rederier, a prominent shipping trade group, strongly opposes a proposal to eliminate tax benefits for Danish seafarers. The group argues that this would be disastrous for Danish shipping and could lead to a significant decline in Danish-flagged ships. They urge the government and parliament not to implement the proposal.
Following Stories compiled in this News Digest for the week from 02 May 2022 to 08 May 2022 in descending…
