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.
Leopard Catamarans, part of Robertson and Caine, is revolutionizing hull construction with a new ‘single shot resin infusion’ technique. This method enhances durability and strength by infusing the entire hull in one go, eliminating secondary bonding. Advanced quality control measures and a focus on sustainability further elevate their craftsmanship and reliability.
Scientists Lim Kang Hui and Haw Kok Giap are tackling the maritime industry’s sustainability challenge with their startup, CRecTech. Founded in 2022, their innovative catalyst technology aims to reduce methanol production costs and emissions. By 2025, they plan to produce 30 tonnes of affordable green methanol annually, addressing rising regulatory demands.
Everllence, formerly MAN Energy Solutions, has unveiled its new brand identity, marking a significant strategic shift. CEO Uwe Lauber emphasized the name change aligns with their “Moving big things to zero” strategy, focusing on decarbonization. The rebranding reflects a commitment to sustainability and innovation in mechanical engineering.
Wärtsilä has introduced its advanced 4-stroke ammonia engine, achieving a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to diesel engines. This engine, part of the Wärtsilä 25 platform, utilizes a low-pressure Otto cycle design, ensuring safety and efficiency. Initial deliveries are expected by 2026, supporting the shipping industry’s decarbonization efforts.
Kongsberg Discovery has unveiled the FS80 Trawl Sonar, a revolutionary system that enhances pelagic trawling by integrating net monitoring, intake profiling, and bottom detection in a compact design. Showcased at the Pacific Marine Expo, this advanced technology aims to improve operational efficiency for fishery operators, promoting sustainable fishing practices.
Italian start-up Newcleo, in collaboration with Fincantieri and Pininfarina, has unveiled concepts for innovative small fission power plants. Aiming to transform energy for shipping, this fourth-generation nuclear reactor emphasizes safety and sustainability. Displayed at a design fair, it seeks to reshape public perceptions of nuclear energy with advanced technology.
On May 18, 2025, Interferry honors Supan Pichaironarong Songkram, a pivotal leader in maritime. As Chair of Chao Phraya Express Boat Co., Ltd., she modernizes services and champions women’s roles, with over 50% of her workforce female. Supan fosters inclusivity and aims to inspire the next generation of female maritime leaders.
Chalmers University of Technology and Greencarrier Group have launched a strategic partnership to enhance sustainability in the maritime sector. Over three years, Greencarrier will fund research led by Professor Ida-Maja Hassellöv, focusing on environmental science and responsible practices, bridging academia and industry to tackle pressing maritime challenges.
