The Green ShipTech Innovation Asia Summit 2025, held in Shanghai on 16 May, was more than just another industry gathering; it was a clarion call to action for the maritime sector. The summit, organised by Shine Consultant, brought together a powerhouse of experts, scholars, and business executives from the shipping, shipbuilding, and green technology sectors. The theme, “Diversified Innovation for Sustainable Green Transformation,” set the stage for a deep dive into the trends and practical approaches driving the industry’s green revolution.
Professor Liu Xiangwei from Shanghai Maritime University chaired the event, setting a tone of academic rigour and practical application. Sun Haihua, Deputy Director of the Shanghai Arbitration Commission, didn’t mince words: “Green ships are an inevitable trend in the global shipping industry.” As the world’s largest ship-owning and shipbuilding nation, China is at the epicentre of this shift. Sun Haihua emphasised the need for platforms that facilitate cooperation among shipbuilders, shipping companies, and research institutions. It’s not just about building green ships; it’s about fostering an ecosystem of innovation and collaboration.
Yan Wei, Vice President of Shanghai Maritime University, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the alignment between the IMO’s net-zero emissions goal and China’s dual-carbon strategy. “The core of green shipping development lies in technical talent cultivation,” Yan Wei asserted. Shanghai Maritime University is already ahead of the curve, introducing courses in renewable energy, advanced materials, and green ship technology. They’ve also made significant strides in green technology standards, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent ready to translate innovations into practical applications.
Bo Cerup-Simonsen, CEO of the Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, provided a global perspective, analysing the impact of the latest IMO policies. Lu Yanhui from COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry Co., Ltd., shared practical experiences and future plans, while Wu Jianyi from China Merchants Energy Shipping Co., Ltd. discussed the green transformation from a ship technology perspective. Karim Fahssis from Maersk detailed Maersk’s decarbonisation initiatives, and Vivi Wong from MSC showcased digital solutions in the shipping industry. Huang Yiming from Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. highlighted advancements in green and digital ship design and manufacturing.
The panel discussion, moderated by Wee Meng Tan from the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation, was a hotbed of ideas. Keiichiro Nakanishi from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Wu Jianyi, John Kollander from Stena RoRo, and Florent D’Azevedo from CMA CGM discussed the zero-carbon transition, synergizing international cooperation and technological innovation. It was clear that the future of green shipping lies in collaboration and shared knowledge.
Session II delved into green shipbuilding and retrofitting. Li Zhengjian from the China Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers emphasised the shipbuilding industry’s role in ecological civilization development. Li Zhonggang from China Ship Design and Research Center presented the latest advancements in green and low-carbon ship technologies. Bai Junli from Wuchang Shipbuilding Heavy Industry Group introduced the design of wind-assisted methanol dual-fuel cargo ships, while Thibaut Raeis from GTT China explored the technological advantages of GTT technology in sustainable shipping.
Session III focused on green shipping ecosystem cooperation. Wee Meng Tan shared insights on accelerating maritime decarbonisation through real-world trials. Zhang Qingsheng from Fujian Guohang Ocean Shipping discussed technological applications for low-carbon ship management. Xu Yingkun from ACT China analysed strategies for compliance with EU Emission Trading in the Asia-Pacific region. Zhu Feng from Hebei Maritime Safety Administration highlighted the latest developments in ship ballast water and biofouling management.
The summit underscored the critical role of green technologies in enabling sustainable maritime development. The consensus was clear: strengthening multilateral partnerships is key to accelerating the industry’s green transition. This isn’t just about meeting IMO and Paris Agreement targets; it’s about shaping a future where the maritime industry is a leader in sustainability.
The event was a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. It’s not just about building greener ships; it’s about building a greener future. The maritime industry is at a crossroads, and events like the Green ShipTech Innovation Asia Summit 2025 are steering it in the right direction. The question now is, who’s ready to set sail on this green voyage? The future of shipping is green, and it’s happening now. Let’s not just talk about it; let’s make it happen. The time for action is now.