On June 12, a resident of Mannar Island, Sri Lanka, found “strange white pebbles,” later confirmed as hazardous pellets from the MSC Elsa 3 shipping incident. The vessel, carrying dangerous chemicals, led to pollution as containers washed up on Kerala’s beaches, severely impacting 78,000 fishing families’ livelihoods across four districts.
The Singapore-flagged vessel WANHAI 503 continues to burn off Kannur’s coast, threatening crew quarters as it drifts south. It carries 2000 tonnes of fuel oil, 240 tonnes of diesel, and 157 containers of hazardous materials, including highly flammable substances. Coast Guard efforts are underway to secure a towline amid rising concerns.
The proposed passenger jetty near the Gateway of India in Mumbai, developed by the Maharashtra Maritime Board, is facing opposition from locals who view it as an environmental hazard and a threat to heritage sites. Despite government support, residents fear the impact on Colaba’s cultural and environmental fabric, calling for relocation.
The Supreme Court has requested an independent expert agency to assess the environmental impact of a multi-billion rupee port project in Palghar, Maharashtra. The ruling came after a plea from the National Fishworkers Forum, citing concerns about environmental and livelihood issues. The court highlighted the importance of proper planning and environmental protection.
The debate over biofuels in the shipping industry is intensifying, with concerns raised by major shipping lines and NGOs like T & E. They argue that biofuels could be unsustainable and harmful. A study suggests a potential increase in biofuel use by 2030, but limited availability of waste biofuels poses a challenge.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) organized a table-top exercise with Indonesia and Malaysia to improve regional coordination for oil spills. Over 20 representatives from MPA, Indonesia, Malaysia, and ITOPF participated to enhance response capabilities in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. This initiative aims to foster collaboration and communication during oil spill incidents.
A risky operation to salvage an oil tanker attacked by Houthi militants in the Red Sea has been successfully completed, preventing a potential massive oil spill. The Greek-registered MT Sounion, carrying 150,000 tonnes of crude oil, was hit by missiles and drones. After months of efforts, the vessel has been declared safe and its cargo removed.
Japan’s NYK and Oono Development Company are collaborating to explore green ship recycling potential in Japan. Emphasizing eco-friendly practices and circular economy support, the partnership aims to commercialize ship recycling. With the rising interest in recycling materials, the focus is on utilizing high-quality steel from ships for construction and other industries.
Environmental activists from the Dutch branch of Extinction Rebellion caused delays for three cruise ships and an oil product tanker on August 18. The group aimed to raise awareness about climate and ecological issues, demanding an immediate end to the cruise industry. Despite police intervention, the protestors were released without arrest, allowing the vessels to proceed.
Bloomberg reported on August 18, 2024, that shipping containers carrying hazardous industrial waste from Albania to Thailand are being returned to Europe due to environmental concerns. Maersk and MSC ships are rerouting 100 containers of potentially harmful waste back to Italy, following efforts by authorities and environmental groups to prevent illegal waste exports to Southeast Asia.
The Dutch environmental group Extinction Rebellion staged protests at the locks leading to Amsterdam, blocking cruise ships to raise awareness about pollution. Chaining themselves to a bridge, protestors delayed the return of a Royal Caribbean ship. Despite police intervention, the group continued their actions, calling for a tax on cruise tickets to support eco-friendly fuels.
A groundbreaking partnership between SailPlan and Norsk Analyse is set to revolutionize the maritime industry with advanced emissions and fuel efficiency measurement technology. This collaboration offers a seamless solution for shipowners to comply with regulations and improve operational efficiency. By combining sensor technology and data analytics, this partnership is driving environmental sustainability and profitability in maritime operations.
Torqeedo is leading the way in sustainability by integrating ocean-bound plastics into their emission-free boating products. With a new Advanced Engineering Team testing recycled materials, they aim to reduce CO2 impact by over 80% while maintaining product quality. This initiative marks a significant step towards a circular plastic economy in the marine industry.
Sailcargo Inc. is revolutionizing shipbuilding by constructing cargo ships out of wood instead of steel, focusing on sustainability. With a commitment to planting 25 trees for every one used in construction, the company aims to reduce the global carbon footprint and minimize waste in their environmentally-focused process.
Australia’s federal government rejected plans for the country’s first wind port due to “unacceptable impacts” on the environment and wildlife. This decision has created a major challenge for the first planned offshore wind farms. The Port of Hastings Corporation and the government for Victoria are exploring their alternatives. Victoria has a goal of developing 2 GW from offshore wind by 2032 and 9 GW by 2040.
