New measures outlined to boost maritime sustainability

New measures to boost sustainability in the shipping industry have been outlined by the Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI), a coalition of global shipping leaders.


The measures are part of a new SSI report, launched yesterday, which also outlines suggested next steps to maintain the industry’s route towards goals set out by the SSI.

The proposed measures will ensure that the industry, which accounts for up to 4% of global CO2 emissions, can contribute towards responsible and efficient use of natural resources, dramatic reductions in greenhouse gas intensity and provision of safe, healthy and secure working environments.

Among the focuses highlighted in the report, Case for More Action, are increased openness and sharing throughout the industry.

The report’s findings emphasise the benefits of transparency and sharing in order to reduce the risks associated with investments, accelerate the uptake of innovative technology and stimulate the pace of change throughout the shipping industry.

Founder director of Forum for the Future, who has been facilitating the SSI, Jonathon Porritt said: “The findings that have been reported and the tangible results that have been accomplished in the areas of ship financing, ship recycling, energy technology and sustainability benchmarking have taken us a way towards our carefully formulated sustainability vision.

“The efforts have highlighted the range of challenges and barriers to sustainability and ways to overcome by more openness and collaboration. We call on more organisations to become members of the SSI and join our mission.”

New director of the SSI, Helle Gleie, who was appointed in September 2013, said: “Following the progress achieved since the creation of the initial ‘Case for Action’ the SSI and its members felt that there was an urgent need to map out the strategy for the next phase of our journey towards a sustainable industry.

“From new vessel types, and new financial models to propulsion through kites and bacteria-based fuels, it is clear that the maritime sector is driving innovation and our new tools and recommendations for future action will accelerate this even further.The SSI’s work reduces risks and promotes nimbler work practices to turn efficiency, sustainability and profitability into realities and norms for the shipping sector,” she added.

The cross-industry SSI members of more than 21 companies represent ship owners and charterers, shipbuilders, technology and solutions providers, banking, insurance, and classification societies.

From September 2013, the SSI became an independent charity but was initially facilitated by Forum for the Future in conjunction with WWF, the global conservation NGO. Forum for the Future will remain an SSI NGO member.

Leigh Stringer

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