WHY TECHNOLOGY IS KEY TO MODERNISING GLOBAL SHIPPING

Responsible for 3% of global emissions, supply chain professionals must decarbonise shipping through technology-led solutions.

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Digital tools are reshaping maritime shipping, enhancing sustainability, efficiency and overall operations.

With shipping responsible for 3% of global emissions, technology offers solutions to transform the industry and reduce its environmental impact.

As the shipping industry faces growing pressure to decarbonise, its current emissions levels are cause for concern. Responsible for as much pollution as the entire nation of Germany, shipping is a significant contributor to global carbon output.

If not addressed, its impact could rise to 11% of global emissions by 2050. To keep pace with sustainability goals, shipping must adopt greener strategies and technology holds the key to this transformation.

Cutting emissions is essential for the future of shipping and technology offers practical ways to achieve this. For example, digital technologies can optimise fuel use, improve routes and enhance operational efficiency.

This can directly lower the industry’s carbon footprint, helping to ensure the shipping sector is part of the global decarbonisation effort.

“Shipowners and operators should look to their suppliers for a clear attention to detail, a knowledge of the wider ecosystem and context in which a vessel operates and for technology providers that have the time and resources to properly understand all of the technical idiosyncrasies of a given ship,” explains Cathy Stephenson, MD at Wartsila Water & Waste.