NYK’s Dry Bulk Safety Conference in Athens underscores the company’s commitment to safety, innovation, and collaboration in the maritime industry. The event, held on January 21, brought together 150 participants representing 70 Greek shipowners and other companies active in the dry bulk sector. This marks the third consecutive year NYK has convened the conference in Greece, following its expansion from Japan in 2024.
The conference served as a platform for sharing critical insights and advancements in maritime safety and operations. NYK presented case studies of past accidents and incidents, along with countermeasures and measures for crew welfare. This practical approach to learning from experience is crucial in an industry where safety can never be overemphasised.
One of the standout introductions was the “NAV9000 Plus,” an evolution of NYK’s proprietary safety standard “NAV9000.” This enhanced standard is designed for NYK’s operated vessels, shipowners, and ship management companies, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to raising safety benchmarks. As NYK’s Senior General Manager of Safety Management, Hiroshi Sakuma, put it, “Safety is not a destination but a journey of continuous improvement.”
Innovation was a recurring theme, with NYK showcasing new fuel additives developed by Nippon Oil & Chemical Industries Co., Ltd. These additives represent a step forward in optimising vessel performance and reducing environmental impact. The company also introduced MarCoPay, a seafarer-tailored electronic money platform whose coverage has been expanded through a collaboration with Kadmos. This digital solution aims to improve the financial well-being of seafarers, a critical aspect of crew welfare.
NYK Shipmanagement Pte. Ltd., NYK’s ship management company, highlighted IT-driven vessel management practices that leverage AI to optimise operations. This technological integration is a testament to the industry’s shift towards digitalisation and data-driven decision-making. As noted by NYK’s General Manager of Ship Management, Takashi Yamazaki, “AI and digital tools are not just about efficiency; they are about empowering our crew to make better, safer decisions.”
The conference also featured insights from leading classification societies. Class NK, a Japanese ship classification society, introduced the latest trends in cybersecurity regulations for ships. Cybersecurity is increasingly critical as vessels become more connected and reliant on digital systems. Class ABS, a U.S. ship classification society, addressed the evolving GHG regulations and their impact on the industry. These presentations underscored the importance of staying ahead of regulatory changes to ensure compliance and sustainability.
WISTA Hellas, a member of WISTA International based in Greece, delivered a presentation on fostering a safety culture through leadership that respects diversity. This session highlighted the role of inclusive leadership in driving safety and innovation. As WISTA Hellas President Elvira Lymperatou stated, “Diversity is not just a moral imperative; it’s a strategic advantage that enhances safety and performance.”
The panel discussion, which included participating shipowners and industry experts, addressed deepening challenges in maritime training, competency, safety standards, and ergonomics. Particular focus was placed on Generation Z, digitalisation, and risk management frameworks. The exchange of opinions on safe operations and seafarer education highlighted the need for continuous adaptation and improvement in these areas.
Moving forward, NYK remains dedicated to disseminating information on safe vessel operations and environmental initiatives. By actively facilitating forums for exchanging views with maritime stakeholders both domestically and internationally, NYK aims to contribute to the sustainable safe operation of the entire shipping industry. This proactive approach is essential in an era of rapid technological change and increasing environmental regulations.
The conference in Athens was more than just a meeting; it was a testament to NYK’s commitment to leading the way in maritime safety and innovation. As the industry faces new challenges and opportunities, such collaborative efforts will be crucial in shaping a safer, more sustainable future for shipping.