The maritime industry stands at a critical juncture, grappling with the pressing need to reduce carbon emissions while navigating the complexities of sustainability. During a recent panel discussion at The Week’s Maritime Conclave 2024 in Chennai, industry experts and stakeholders exchanged ideas on whether green ships can become a reality and what advancements are being made in sustainable port operations. The discussions, led by figures like Sushil Singh, Chairman of the Deendayal Port Authority, highlighted the stark realities of the current maritime landscape.
Singh painted a sobering picture, revealing that the 38,000 vessels engaged in international trade consume a staggering 200 million tonnes of conventional fossil fuels annually, releasing a billion tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. He warned that if left unchecked, GHG emissions will only escalate alongside maritime trade, raising “serious concerns.” The urgency for action is palpable, and Singh emphasized the necessity for immediate measures to achieve net-zero GHG emissions as outlined by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
His short-term solutions, including energy-efficient practices like slow steaming and propeller cleaning, are essential but have limitations in their potential impact. The real challenge lies in the availability and affordability of alternative fuels such as methanol, green ammonia, and hydrogen. Singh noted that these alternatives currently cost 2.5 to 3 times more than traditional fossil fuels. For the maritime sector to pivot towards a low-carbon future, significant investments are needed to upgrade production infrastructure and scale up fuel availability.
Dr. S Nallayarasu from IIT Madras brought another layer of complexity to the conversation by addressing the infrastructure challenges faced by ports. He pointed out that while capacities are being added, the existing infrastructure often remains outdated, with many major ports operating with systems that are over 30 years old. This mismatch between capacity expansion and infrastructure modernization could lead to operational failures if not addressed. Nallayarasu proposed a dual approach: a new master plan that learns from past mistakes and the establishment of a corpus fund dedicated to infrastructure enhancements over the next 50 years.
Naveen Prakash, SICCI SCM’s Chair, highlighted the role of technology in supporting MSMEs and promoting sustainability. By facilitating online services, his company has reduced the need for physical travel, thereby contributing to a greener supply chain. The emphasis on technological solutions reflects a broader trend in the industry, where innovation can be the key to overcoming traditional barriers.
As the maritime sector grapples with these challenges, the discussions at The Week’s Maritime Conclave 2024 underscore a collective recognition of the need for immediate and sustained action. The path to a sustainable future is fraught with hurdles, but it also brims with opportunities for innovation and collaboration. The stakes are high, and as industry leaders come together to tackle these issues, the maritime community must remain vigilant and proactive in shaping a greener, more sustainable future.
