Maritime Singapore said while the Covid-19 pandemic has been the primary global issue of the year, decarbonization continues to be a high priority on its agenda as it remains committed to sustainable international shipping as guided by the targets of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The United Nations agency mandates the reduction of total annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping by at least 50% by 2050 in a bid to reduce the air pollution created by the industry.
"Supported by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, the Singapore Maritime Foundation has established an International Advisory Panel (IAP) on Maritime Decarbonisation (IAP) to develop a strategy to support the industry to achieve these goals," Maritime Singapore said.
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, the IAP will discuss pathways to maritime decarbonisation, policies that could help accelerate the transition, and proposed actions to be taken by Maritime Singapore.
Recognising that the topic is cross-disciplinary in nature, Maritime Singapore said the IAP draws on the expertise of leaders not just from shipping companies, but of port operators, academia, class societies, insurance and finance players, energy companies, engine makers, shipyards, shipping associations, and government.
“I am pleased that we have been able to gather a strong group of industry leaders to develop a holistic strategy on maritime decarbonisation. We will look at policy options and enablers that position Singapore to play its part in this global effort,” said Andreas Sohmen-Pao, chairman of the IAP.
Wong Weng Sun commented: “Decarbonisation is a multi-faceted issue requiring different perspectives and collaborations. The IAP reflects this, and I look forward to robust discussions with the panel to see how Singapore can become a centre of excellence for maritime decarbonisation efforts.”
The IAP convened its inaugural meeting on July 2 via videoconference.
