Role of Seafarers in Maritime Decarbonization

Amid rising sea levels, intensifying weather events, and the stark realities of climate change, the maritime community finds itself at a crossroads. As the backbone of global trade, shipping plays a significant role in the climate emergency, contributing approximately 3% of total greenhouse gas emissions globally.

The importance of decarbonizing the maritime industry cannot be overstated. But amidst the calls for change and regulation, there’s a crucial element often overlooked – the indispensable role of seafarers.

Seafarers are at the heart of this transition

Beyond the statistics and regulations lies a fundamental reality often overlooked: the pivotal role of seafarers in maritime decarbonization.

Seafarers aren’t mere passengers on this journey toward sustainability; we are the backbone of the maritime industry. By embracing cleaner technologies, optimizing fuel consumption, and advocating for sustainable practices, we, the captains, engineers, and crew, can significantly reduce emissions and minimize the environmental impact of shipping.

Being aware and ready

Whilst the transition is inevitable, the onus is on the seafarers to be aware of the regulatory landscape and strive for compliance. Understanding the rationale behind these regulations, whether driven by the IMO or specific to regions or countries, is crucial.

In recent times, we’ve witnessed the implementation of various regulations, such as EEXI, CII, and EU ETS, with more expected in the future.

Each regulation, whether focusing on design-related compliance like EEXI or operational parameters like CII, brings its own set of challenges and requirements. We must grasp how these regulations are applied to ensure vessel compliance and contribute to the industry’s decarbonization efforts effectively.

Moreover, decarbonization demands concentrated effort towards improving efficiency and reducing emissions. Technology plays a vital role in achieving these goals, with innovations ranging from energy-saving devices to renewable fuels and alternative power sources like solar and wind installations. While some technologies may operate autonomously, many require active participation from seafarers for successful implementation.

For instance, rotor sails require operational know-how for effective utilization. Similarly, voyage optimization and weather routing tools rely on seafarers’ expertise to maximize efficiency.

In essence, being aware of regulations, open to learning about new technologies, and ready to adapt to changing circumstances are essential qualities for seafarers in the context of maritime decarbonization.

The Need for Specialized Training

The need for specialized training is paramount in preparing seafarers for the challenges of maritime decarbonization. Research commissioned by the Maritime Just Transition Task Force reveals that by the mid-2030s, approximately 800,000 seafarers may require additional training to operate vessels powered by zero or near-zero emission fuels.

The revision of key treaties such as the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) reflects a commitment to comprehensive training standards that align with decarbonization objectives. Through collaboration with industry stakeholders and seafarers’ unions, these standards will evolve to meet the evolving demands of a greener shipping industry.

The significance of this training extends beyond environmental considerations. It is also crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of maritime operations. With the adoption of new technologies such as hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol, seafarers must be prepared to operate and maintain vessels safely and sustainably. This underscores the crucial role of education and upskilling in equipping seafarers with the necessary knowledge and expertise to navigate the transition towards cleaner technologies.

In conclusion, seafarers stand at the forefront of maritime decarbonization, embodying the essential link between industry regulations, technological advancements, and environmental stewardship. By embracing cleaner technologies, staying informed about regulatory requirements, and undergoing specialized training, seafarers play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future for global shipping.

As we move forward, continued collaboration among industry stakeholders, governments, and seafarers’ unions will be essential in fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and resilience within the maritime community. Together, we can navigate towards a greener, more sustainable maritime industry for generations to come.

Related reading:

• Why and How to Decarbonize the Marine Industry?
• 4 Types Of Green Fuels For Ships and Their Challenges

About Author

Azolla is a leading provider of sustainable solutions that drive decarbonization in the maritime industry. With a firm conviction that maritime professionals are key agents of change, Azolla endeavours to educate and empower individuals to embrace sustainable practices and lead the industry towards a carbon-neutral future. The writing team comprises of:

Kiran Shet, Head of Azolla
Aditya Srivatsava, Manager – Energy Efficiency & Decarbonization
Manav Chidambaran – Decarbonisation Specialist
Jothieswaran – Senior Naval Architect