Joanna James
As concerns over climate change grow, the shipping industry has recognised the need to reduce its impact on the environment. Several measures have been put in place and here’s more on how the industry is charting a course towards a more sustainable future.
One of the most significant contributors to environmental pollution in the shipping industry is fuel consumption. To address this, many companies are investing in advanced technologies and practices to optimise the use of fuel. This includes adopting streamlined hull designs, employing energy-efficient engines, and using weather routing systems. Ships are also beginning to utilise artificial intelligence technologies to process big data to find the best routes, speeds, etc. in real time to help increase efficiency and decrease greenhouse gas emissions.
The use of traditional fossil fuels has been an integral part of the shipping industry though it also causes significant harm to the environment. Thus, there has been a push toward researching and utilising alternative fuels which offer cleaner options. Amongst the potential fuel alternatives are liquid natural gas, hydrogen, liquefied petroleum gas and methanol though as one would expect, change cannot come overnight with aspects such as engine modifications needed. However, in time, the partial or full use of such alternatives will lead to fewer emissions and help the industry achieve its sustainability goals.
Exhaust emissions from ships are another significant environmental concern. When it comes to emissions due to the combustion process of fossil fuels aboard ships, sulphur and NOx which is the collective name given to nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide are amongst the most harmful. To address such issues, the shipping industry is adopting cutting-edge exhaust emission reduction technologies; examples include installing Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and exhaust gas cleaning systems (scrubbers) to reduce harmful pollutants such as sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. These technologies not only improve air quality but also align the industry with stringent international regulations.
Achieving environmental sustainability in the shipping industry requires a fundamental shift in attitude. Companies are increasingly recognising the importance of environmental stewardship and are incorporating sustainable practices into their corporate culture. For example, this can be seen at some of the leading freight forwarders in Sri Lanka which also integrate corporate social responsibility into their vision and mission; these include experienced names in the industry such as the McLarens Group that have adopted green initiatives while also striving towards achieving the ‘triple bottom line’ where the focus is not just on profit but people, and the planet as well.
There is much waste generated from shipping be it operational waste or domestic waste ranging from hazardous material to plastic, both of which harm the environment. Thus, the shipping industry is embracing responsible waste disposal practices to minimise its impact on the ocean and marine life that calls it home. Amongst the active measures being taken include recycling and properly disposing of waste as well as taking proactive measures to prevent oil spills and hazardous material contamination. Additionally, vessel operators are complying with the regulations set by the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) which is helping the industry be more eco-conscious as well.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
