With the global push towards sustainability and the UK government’s commitment to reaching net zero emissions by 2050, companies are under increasing pressure to adopt greener practices. This has led to a surge in initiatives to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon footprints.
Some key trends that are being seen as the industry is moving towards a greener future are;
- Methanol-powered Ships
- Wind-Assisted Propulsion
- Shore Power Expansions
- Hydrogen-Powered Ships
- AI & Digital Optimisation
These trends also affect employment as new roles and training programs are required, focusing on environmental shipping technologies.
There is also the long-standing debate surrounding the Kra Canal which is a proposed canal cutting across Southern Thailand. This man-made canal would connect the Andaman Sea with the Gulf of Thailand, providing a shortcut by rerouting shipping away from the Strait of Malacca in turn the reducing sailing route will reduce fuel costs and consumption which can only be seen as a positive in relation to global warming and a more sustainable shipping future.
The shipping industry is undergoing a substantial change toward sustainability, piloted by the need to address climate change and protect the environment. By using renewable energy sources, utilising fuel-efficient technologies and improving port infrastructure and operations the industry certainly is making progress.
