On September 28, 2025, the Ulsan Port Authority celebrated a milestone with Korea’s first methanol bunkering for a dual-fuel bulk carrier. The operation, involving the “Green Future,” underscores Ulsan’s commitment to sustainable marine fuel, following its pioneering methanol bunkering demonstrations for container ships in 2023-2024.
World Maritime Day 2025, observed on September 25, will spotlight the ocean and the maritime industry’s efforts to protect marine environments. This year’s theme emphasizes reducing pollution and safeguarding biodiversity. With initiatives like the High Seas Treaty and a new Net-Zero Framework, the IMO and global community aim for sustainable maritime practices.
Accelleron’s inaugural report, “Deadlock: What’s Stopping Shipping’s Carbon-Neutral Fuel Transition?”, argues that while efficiency measures can help meet IMO’s 2030 targets, deeper decarbonization hinges on the adoption of green hydrogen fuels. Collaboration across sectors is crucial to stimulate production, reduce costs, and achieve net-zero emissions in shipping.
In the bustling Mediterranean ports, shipping’s environmental impact is profound, with ships emitting significant pollutants. The GreenMED project, backed by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, unites Greece, Spain, Cyprus, and Egypt to promote cleaner maritime practices. Central to this effort is the Mediterranean Sustainable Shipping Observatory, focusing on decarbonization.
Wärtsilä has launched an advanced simulation suite at Akademi Laut Malaysia (ALAM), enhancing maritime education. This state-of-the-art facility features dual-fuel simulator technology and virtual reality, preparing seafarers for sustainable fuels. Recognized as part of Wärtsilä’s MASTERS program, ALAM sets a new standard for Maritime Education and Training in the Asia Pacific.
Navigator Gas has partnered with Amon Maritime to create Navigator Amon Shipping, focusing on two ammonia-fuelled gas carriers. Navigator will hold an 80% stake. The vessels, with a capacity of 51,530m³, will also transport liquefied petroleum gas, emphasizing sustainable energy solutions in alignment with net-zero goals.
During its 134th session, the IMO Council approved a two-year theme for Maritime Day: “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence.” This initiative aims to enhance Member States’ abilities to translate policies into actionable practices, promoting safer and more environmentally sound shipping while aligning with the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
The University of Strathclyde has established the Oldendorff Research Centre for Sustainable Shipping in Glasgow, aiming to drive research on maritime decarbonisation. Focused on critical evidence gaps, the Centre will investigate energy-efficient vessel design, alternative fuels, and crew welfare, fostering collaboration to address urgent challenges in global shipping sustainability.
Ocean Network Express (ONE) has launched the ONE Singapore, a 13,900-TEU container vessel, at Imabari Shipbuilding’s Hiroshima Shipyard. This marks the sixth addition to its ammonia/methanol-ready fleet. CEO Jeremy Nixon emphasized the vessel’s name reflects ONE’s strong ties to Singapore’s maritime sector and commitment to sustainable shipping practices.
A.P. Moller-Maersk has launched the world’s first large fleet of dual-fuel methanol-powered container vessels, marking a pivotal advancement in sustainable shipping. This initiative, supported by partners like Nestlé and Nike, aims to decarbonize the industry by employing ships capable of running on traditional fuels and green methanol.
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Samsung Heavy Industries are developing an innovative LNG carrier, recently receiving Approval in Principle from Lloyd’s Register. Featuring a 174,000 cbm capacity and a 300kW Solid Oxide Fuel Cell system, the vessel aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, supporting maritime decarbonization efforts by 2027.
SK Incheon Petrochem has launched Korea’s first bio marine fuel, B30, comprising 30% bio-based materials and 70% Straight Run Fuel Oil (SRFO). This initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the shipping sector, aligning with international standards and contributing to sustainability in maritime operations. Official supply began on April 26, 2025.
India’s Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited (UCSL) recently delivered the Wilson Eco 1, the first of six 3,800 DWT green dry cargo vessels to Norway’s Wilson Ship Management AS. This milestone marks a significant achievement in India’s export of eco-friendly maritime solutions. The vessel is part of a green shipping initiative supported by the Norwegian government.
The Bingo42, a new 42,000 dwt bulk carrier, is a collaboration between Japanese shipbuilders Onomichi Dockyard and Tsuneishi Shipbuilding. The vessel’s name symbolizes innovation and sustainability, reflecting the shared goal of designing cutting-edge ships. By working together, the shipyards aim to create more efficient and environmentally friendly vessels for their customers.
BERG Propulsion is transforming the shipping industry with climate neutral propeller shafts made using the GreenForge® process. Three LDA vessels will utilize sustainable wind power, hybrid propulsion, and power management technology from BERG. These vessels will also feature propeller shafts made from recycled scrap steel, reducing CO2 emissions.
