While the COVID-19 pandemic has been the primary global issue of the year, decarbonization continues to be a high priority on Maritime Singapore’s agenda. Supported by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, the Singapore Maritime Foundation has established an International Advisory Panel on Maritime Decarbonization (IAP) to develop a strategy to support the industry achieve sustainability goals. 

Maritime Singapore is committed to sustainable international shipping as guided by the targets of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to reduce total annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping by at least 50% by 2050.

The IAP will discuss pathways to maritime decarbonization, policies that could help accelerate the transition, and proposed actions to be taken by Maritime Singapore.  Recognizing that the topic is cross-disciplinary in nature, the IAP draws on the expertise of leaders from shipping companies, port operators, academia, class societies, insurance and finance players, energy companies, engine makers, shipyards, shipping associations, and government. 

The IAP convened its inaugural meeting on 1 Jul via videoconference, and was joined by Senior Minister of State for Transport and Health Dr Lam Pin Min, and IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim.

Dr Lam said: “Singapore is a strong proponent of environmental sustainability and remains committed to helping IMO achieve its goals of sustainable international shipping. As a leading maritime nation, I am glad that Singapore has led the way by forming the IAP on Maritime Decarbonization to drive such efforts for the maritime industry.”

The IAP is chaired by Andreas Sohmen-Pao, Chairman of the Singapore Maritime Foundation, and co-chaired by Wong Weng Sun, Chairman of the Board and Governing Council of the Singapore Maritime Institute.

Image credit: NAPA / Shutterstock.com