IMO - Experts & Thought Leaders

The European Space Agency (ESA) has initiated a new flagship project, Decarbonisation through the Digitalisation in Shipping (DECARDIS), together with optimisation platform company Awake.AI, technology pioneer ABB and shipping company Wallenius Marine. The consortium, funded by ESA and led by Awake.AI, will collaborate on a port call optimisation solution, which focuses on helping ships cut greenhouse gas emissions by overcoming inefficiencies in the ship-port interaction.  Smart ship technology Ships told to move without delay often face a wait on arrival in port, having used more fuel Despite huge strides in smart ship technology and high levels of port automation, relationships between port and ship systems lack transparency, with data on voyage and berth management often confined to closed platforms.  Ships told to proceed without delay frequently face a wait on arrival in port, having used more fuel and generated additional emissions.  Net-zero greenhouse gas emissions DECARDIS project seeks to develop an integrated and interoperable solution to join up decisions on ship routeing and speed with just-in-time arrival at the berth. It foresees the world’s first solution to optimise an entire voyage and port calls, rather than just a portion of it. Adopted at a global level, DECARDIS partners estimate that such a solution could help achieve significant emission reductions. This is highly significant for an industry pressed by International Maritime Organisation targets to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by or around 2050 and the EU 2030 Climate Target Plan proposal to reduce emissions by at least 55 percent by 2030, compared to 1990 levels. Advanced digital solution Users access this interoperable sail and port call optimisation key via a web-based interface The DECARDIS project aims to integrate the voyage optimisation solution of the ABB-Wallenius Marine collaboration called OVERSEA with port optimisation solutions offered by Awake.AI in an interoperable solution. Users will access this interoperable voyage and port call optimisation solution through a web-based interface that is compatible with existing onboard solutions. OVERSEA users will draw on both an advanced digital solution and support from centre experts to reach decisions on optimising vessel operational performance, cut bunker cost and reduce emissions. OVERSEA collaboration “With the OVERSEA collaboration, we are establishing a smart fleet support service which enhances efficiency”, said Jesper Lögdström, Head of Performance Management Centre, Wallenius Marine.  “We aim to give crews and shore personnel a common understanding of data and support them with insights and actionable recommendations to improve vessel operational performance. Transparency and close collaboration with clients will be crucial to succeed.” Port services and products Awake.AI ended its first ESA demonstration ‘Smart Port Marketplace’ project Last year Awake.AI completed its first ESA demonstration ‘Smart Port Marketplace’ project, enabling the automation of buying and selling of port services and products. “Together with ABB and Wallenius Marine, we have a joint vision to the industry: what if no ship ever had to rush to wait. Every ship would always sail at their optimal speed and take the optimal route,” said Karno Tenovuo, CEO, Awake.AI. “By combining the technologies Awake.AI has for port call optimisation and ABB and Wallenius Marine have for the voyage optimisation, we can make this vision a reality.” Development towards shipping “We at ABB have developed a pioneering position in maritime digitalisation based on a blend of systems development and sector expertise across power distribution, control and automation, propulsion and vessel management software,” said Osku Kälkäjä, Head of Digital Business, ABB Marine & Ports. “This sector-specific expertise also convinces us that collaboration is key to overcoming inefficiencies that slow down the development towards more sustainable shipping. Working with Wallenius Marine on OVERSEA has strengthened this conviction. We look forward to the exciting work ahead with Awake.AI on port side digitalisation.” Decarbonisation of the maritime industry The call seeks to assist the maritime sector in adapting to and complying with new European works The project is part of ESA’s call on maritime decarbonisation, which is aimed at supporting the development of sustainable space-based services and applications that address challenges related to the decarbonisation of the maritime industry. Additionally, the call seeks to assist the maritime sector in adapting to and complying with new European and international regulatory frameworks. Decarbonisation targets “The maritime sector is undergoing a profound transformation to meet decarbonisation targets." "DECARDIS is a prime example of how space data combined with digitalisation can be leveraged to transform the sector with immediate effect, and without compromising performance," said Nil Angli, Maritime Lead at ESA Space Solutions.

The Brun Bear Foundation, a registered charity established by Edwin Lampert, executive editor of Riviera Maritime Media, is pleased to announce the launch of “Mealtimes With My Maritime Friends.” This unique cookbook celebrates the global maritime community while raising funds for important causes. Featuring 60 inspiring recipes from around the world, contributed by prominent figures in the maritime industry, this book offers a taste of maritime culture alongside the personal stories of its contributors. It is available for purchase in both paperback and Kindle formats. More than just recipes Mealtimes With My Maritime Friends is not merely a collection of delicious recipes. Each dish is paired with a personal story or anecdote from a member of the maritime community, offering insight into the diverse cultures and experiences that shape this vital industry. Featured pioneering maritime personalities include: Arsenio Domínguez - Secretary General, International Maritime Organization Eman Abdalla - Global Operations and Supply Chain Director, Cargill Mark Cameron - Chief Operating Officer, Ardmore Shipping Corporation Anna Ziou - Director, Maritime and Regulatory Affairs, Carnival Corporation Mikael Skov CEO, Hafnia Catrine Vestereng, Senior Vice President and Business Director Tankers, Maritime DNV John Rendi, Vice President Global Business Development, Maritec Marine Environmental Services Katharina Stanzel, Managing Director, INTERTANKO From Maria Dixon’s Spanish Tortilla to My Nguyen’s Chicken Curry Wraps and John Rendi’s Thousand-Layers Taro Mooncakes, there is something to tantalise every palate. The book also includes nutritional information and allergen declarations for each recipe, ensuring accessibility for all readers. A culinary voyage for a cause These funds will also support the newly launched MarineBEAR Award This cookbook stands as a testament to the dedication and passion of the maritime community. All royalties from book sales will be donated to essential community initiatives, medical advancements, marine conservation, and animal welfare causes. These funds will also support the newly launched MarineBEAR Award. The MarineBEAR Award The MarineBEAR Award is an annual initiative aimed at enhancing maritime education, promoting research, advancing sustainability, and recognising excellence within the maritime sector. The award will support to an outstanding conservation technology project focused on marine conservation. This funding can be utilised to purchase new equipment, access critical resources, or support training for projects addressing various marine-related issues.  Championing maritime sustainability Applications are open to individuals at all stages of project development, from those exploring new ideas Applications are open to individuals at all stages of project development, from those exploring new ideas to those involved in established projects. Selection will be conducted by renowned experts in marine conservation, technology, and sustainability, including Dr. Beverley Mackenzie (Director of Marine Environment at BIMCO) and Dr. Olive Heffernan (freelance science journalist and lecturer specialising in ocean and climate science communication). Book Launch Event A special launch event will take place on Wednesday, 20th November from 17:30 at the ING offices in London (8-10 Moorgate, Moorgate EC2R 6DA). The event will feature a welcome reception, an art tour, a wine tasting and buffet dinner, a presentation of the cookbook, and a live auction. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the book’s launch, meet the contributors, and support the important causes it champions.

INTERCARGO, the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners, has announced significant changes to its leadership following its Annual General Meeting. The new appointments will take effect from 1 January 2025. In recognition of their distinguished service, Mr. Dimitrios Fafalios has been appointed Honourary Chairman following six years as Chairman. Mr Fafalios, President of Fafalios Shipping S.A., has led INTERCARGO through significant developments in the shipping sector since 2019, having previously chaired its Technical Committee for a decade. INTERCARGO's new Chairman Mr. Spyros Tarasis will also be stepping down at the end of 2024 following his six-year term as Vice-Chairman. His substantial contributions to the Association's work throughout his tenure were highly praised. Mr. John A. Xylas, President and CEO of Ariston Navigation Corp., has been elected as INTERCARGO's new Chairman. With over 38 years of experience in the shipping sector, Mr. Xylas brings extensive expertise in dry bulk shipping operations and a strong track record of leadership, including his current role on the board of the Union of Greek Shipowners. INTERCARGO's Vice-Chair Mrs. Metaxia Psalti, CEO of Neda Maritime Agency was elected as INTERCARGO's Vice-Chair In a historic development, Mrs. Metaxia Psalti, Chief Operating Officer of Neda Maritime Agency Co. Ltd., was elected as INTERCARGO's Vice-Chair, marking the first time a woman has held this prestigious position.  Mrs. Psalti, who holds a Master's degree in Maritime Law from City University, London, brings over three decades of maritime experience and expertise, specialising in the commercial operations of a diversified fleet. Among her many contributions, she has been pioneering the Association's Quality Panel as its Chair. Safety and operational excellence Capt. Uttam Kumar Jaiswal of Pacific Basin Shipping (HK) Ltd has been re-elected as Vice-Chairman, continuing his valued contribution to the Association. Capt. Jaiswal's particular focus on safety and operational excellence has been recognised through multiple awards in the shipping sector. The Technical Committee will be led by Mr. Dimitris Monioudis Managing Director of Rethymnis & Kulukundis Ltd as Chairman, supported by Mr. Cesare d'Api Technical Director of D'Amico Societa Di Navigazione S.p.A as Vice-Chairman. INTERCARGO's role Mr. Keenan has been appointed an honorary member of the Technical Committee Both bring extensive technical expertise and shipping experience to their roles. This follows the current Technical Committee Chairman, Tom Keenan, also stepping down at the end of 2024, having served the maximum term of six years. Mr. Keenan has been appointed an honorary member of the Technical Committee, effective 1 January 2025. Mr. John Xylas, incoming Chairman of INTERCARGO, commented: "It is a privilege to take on this role, and I want to express my gratitude to Dimitrios Fafalios for his outstanding leadership over the past six years. As our sector navigates significant changes, from decarbonisation to digitalisation, INTERCARGO's role in representing quality dry bulk shipowners has never been more important." Levels of international shipping Xylas added: "Together with our new leadership team, we will continue to promote safe, efficient, and environmentally sound bulk carrier operations while ensuring our members' voices are heard at the highest levels of international shipping." INTERCARGO represents the interests of quality dry bulk shipowners, with approximately one-third of the global ocean-going bulk carrier fleet registered with the organisation. The Association plays a key role in representing its members at international fora, including the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

Shipment of goods around the world has continued throughout COVID-19, but the pandemic has afforded unprecedented challenges to the maritime industry. When the pandemic necessitated health restrictions and limited international travel, the impact on crew change practices was monumental. More than a million seafarers work in demanding conditions to support 80% of world trade. Crews were trapped on board vessels for months and months, unable to return home and extending their tours of duty indefinitely. Especially impacted were major crew change port countries in Asia where the majority of seafarers reside. Protective health measures Seafarers are facing extended tours of duty and high levels of fatigue that could lead to a serious accident More than 18 months into the pandemic, the ongoing crew change crisis appears as intractable as the disease itself. Seafarers are facing extended tours of duty and high levels of fatigue that could lead to a serious accident. Thousands have been left stranded on ships beyond the terms of their contracts. If the crisis has an impact on safety, ships may be unable to continue operations, which could threaten the global supply chain. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has issued a Framework of Protocols for crew change, recently updated, including recommendations such as designating marine personnel as ‘key workers,’ exempting them from travel restrictions, simplifying requirements for identity documents and approvals, implementing screening procedures, and providing basic protective health measures against COVID-19. Key maritime hubs Recognising a shared responsibility to resolve the crew change crisis, more than 800 companies and organisations have signed the Neptune Declaration on Seafarer Wellbeing and Crew Change. The declaration’s action points include recognising seafarers as key workers, implementing ‘gold standard’ health protocols, and ensuring air connectivity between key maritime hubs for seafarers. The declaration also promotes more collaboration between ship operators and charterers to facilitate crew change. The declaration’s action points include recognising seafarers as key workers Data from the 10 largest ship managers reflects a 50% increase between May and July 2021 in the proportion of seafarers onboard vessels beyond their contract expiry. The fast-spreading Delta variant has aggravated the problem, and a report for July suggests the problem is getting worse. The Maritime Labour Convention says the maximum continuous period a seafarer should serve on board a vessel without leave is 11 months. Crew change crisis However, the number of seafarers aboard vessels beyond their contract expiry has risen recently from 5.8% to 8.8%. The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) estimates that more than 300,000 seafarers have extended their working periods on board due to delay in connection of their relief. Factors aggravating the crew change crisis include: There are many stakeholders with shared responsibilities that must be addressed. Collaboration and transparent sharing of information are needed to solve the problem. Working together is the only path to a solution. Lack of vaccine availability. Seafarers in developing countries do not have access to vaccines. Large seafarer nations such as the Philippines are reporting vaccine shortages. Priority access to vaccines is a critical factor in resolving the crew change crisis. Continuing high infection rates and domestic lockdowns. Given the Delta variant and other factors, it is clear the pandemic is far from over. Supply chain demands The crew change crisis has gone on for a year and a half, with the highest cost falling on seafarers, their health, and their families’ wellbeing. The importance of maintaining the global supply chain demands that the industry, the biggest ports and the key shipping transit points around the globe work collectively to address the lingering challenges of the crew change crisis.