MEETING shipping’s energy needs while adjusting to cleaner fuels are themes set to be debated at a gathering of the International Maritime Organization Marine Environment Protection Committee in London this week.
One of the delegates attending MEPC74 is Angela Gillham, deputy chief executive of Maritime Industry Australia.
“The shipping industry faces the ongoing challenge of meeting future energy needs, stricter global requirements and an increased local focus on ship sourced emissions, carbon constraints and growing trade within a globalised economy,” Ms Gillham said.
“A coordinated approach to R&D for the sector to assist industry to make innovative technology investments with a focus on emissions reduction, future regulatory compliance and business needs is essential.”
According to a press release from organisers, the major focus of MEPC 74 is to finalise “critical guidance” on consistent implementation of the global sulphur cap and progress measures to cut GHG emissions from shipping.
These include assessing the possible impacts on states, the merits of technical proposals to cut shipping efficiency and reduce emissions and to agree the terms of reference for the fourth IMO study on GHG Emissions from shipping.
MIAL is also running an Environment Masterclass to examine how new Australian biofouling regulations are likely to impact upon ship operators.
“Regulatory change is not always easy, and operators need to know what is coming early so that businesses can plan ahead and be well prepared,” Ms Gillham said.
“Ultimately, these changes will result in a more environmentally sustainable and, if managed carefully, more profitable industry – which is a good thing.”
The next MIAL Environment Masterclass – focussing on energy efficiency, is being held on 6 June 2019 in Melbourne. Contact MIAL for further information.
