The Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has launched a ₹384-crore initiative to become a net-zero maritime hub by 2047. Central to this plan is a significant energy upgrade, increasing solar capacity from 10MW to 30MW, alongside implementing an advanced Energy Management System for real-time energy optimization, setting new sustainability benchmarks.
On the 20th anniversary of the Maritime Labour Convention, Human Rights at Sea urged Australia’s Transport Minister, Catherine King, to improve seafarer welfare services. Sue Dight, from Mission to Seafarers, is seeking funding across Australia, emphasizing the need for a coordinated national framework to support over 500,000 seafarers annually.
French private equity firm Eurazeo has announced a successful first closing of €175 million for its Eurazeo Sustainable Maritime Infrastructure II (ESMI II) fund, surpassing its initial €125 million target. Launched in December 2025, ESMI II focuses on financing eco-friendly maritime projects across Europe, aiming for a total of €400 million.
The Paris-based investment firm has successfully raised over €175 million for its Sustainable Maritime Infrastructure II fund, aimed at facilitating the decarbonization of the European maritime sector. With a focus on small and medium-sized enterprises, the fund offers tailored financing solutions amid increasing environmental regulations and limited options.
Sustainability is crucial in industrial and maritime sectors, with precision shaft alignment offering a key opportunity to reduce energy consumption and emissions. Proper alignment enhances equipment reliability, minimizes vibration, and promotes efficiency, ultimately leading to lower CO2 emissions. This approach not only aids compliance with environmental regulations but also extends equipment lifespan.
Sallaum Lines has proudly welcomed the MV Ocean Explorer to its Ocean Class fleet, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainable maritime operations. This advanced Pure Car and Truck Carrier features LNG dual-fuel propulsion, significantly reducing emissions and aligning with the company’s goal to decarbonize the RoRo shipping sector.
India is making notable progress in green maritime initiatives, with ports adopting renewable energy and sustainable practices. This shift, informed by global health and environmental standards, aims to balance economic growth with eco-friendliness. Key strategies include clean fuels like green hydrogen and the Maritime India Vision 2030, targeting significant emission reductions.
As the demand for cleaner energy rises, port authorities seek eco-friendly solutions that balance productivity and budget constraints. Renewable propane, derived from used cooking oil and animal fats, offers a low-carbon alternative to conventional propane. It significantly reduces emissions while integrating seamlessly into existing infrastructure, enhancing sustainability in port operations.
The European Commission has launched its Sustainable Transport Investment Plan (STIP) to boost the aviation and maritime sectors’ energy transition. By 2035, around 20 million tonnes of sustainable fuels will be needed, requiring a €100 billion investment. The plan aims for climate neutrality by 2050, emphasizing regulatory stability to attract funding.
India’s maritime landscape advanced significantly with the launch of India Maritime Week (IMW) 2025 in Mumbai by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The event featured nearly ₹55,000 crore in strategic partnerships aimed at creating a sustainable maritime ecosystem, highlighted by a key MoU with the Netherlands for a Green and Digital Sea Corridor.
Researchers at the University of Southern Queensland are advancing sustainable maritime infrastructure to withstand Queensland’s harsh coastal conditions and severe weather. Co-lead Professor Allan Manalo emphasizes the urgent need to replace aging infrastructure. Collaborating with Wagners Composite Fibre Technologies, they are testing high-performance composites to enhance durability and promote low-carbon construction methods.
BIMCO and WISTA International have formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding, aiming to enhance workforce sustainability and promote gender inclusivity in the maritime sector. This collaboration, finalized at Maritime Cyprus, focuses on research, training, and empowering professionals, particularly women, to thrive in the evolving maritime landscape.
Kerala will host its inaugural Kerala-EU Blue Economy Conclave on September 18–19, in collaboration with the European Union and the Government of India. This event aims to strengthen EU-India partnerships in sustainable ocean investments, climate action, and technological innovation, establishing Kerala as a key player in a global sustainable blue economy.
During his visit to Fiji National University’s Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies, IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez urged the advancement of sustainable marine transportation. He proposed a market analysis of the shipping industry’s needs and offered consultancy services. This initiative aims to enhance local expertise and revive shipbuilding courses, honoring Pacific island heritage.
The Maharashtra Maritime Summit 2025, hosted by Times Network, showcased Maharashtra’s maritime vision, emphasizing sustainable port-led development. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis championed public-private partnerships and smart technology to enhance efficiency. With initiatives like the Vadhavan Port revival, the summit highlighted the state’s commitment to becoming a key player in India’s maritime landscape.
