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Founded
October 2021
The maritime industry must peak its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as soon as possible and fully decarbonise by 2050. While this will require long-term planning and investments, there are several ways to improve the operational efficiency of voyages today to lower emissions at little to no extra cost. These operational efficiencies not only reduce emissions now, they also pave the way for the uptake of more expensive zero-emission fuels and technologies in the long run.
Vessel operations are inextricably linked to their fuel consumption and emissions, and operational efficiency provides an opportunity to significantly reduce both immediately. Through actions available today, the maritime industry can reduce its emissions by as much as 25% without the need for new technologies, high capital investments, or complex regulatory frameworks. Adopting optimisation strategies not only reduces emissions and costs but will also increase future savings on more expensive zero-emission fuels.
Improving the operational efficiency of voyages is a triple win. It reduces fuel consumption and costs, immediately brings down greenhouse gas emissions, and paves the way for the uptake of more expensive zero-emission fuels and technologies in the long run. In early 2024, the Global Maritime Forum identified more than 70 operational efficiency measures taken by nearly 30 companies – including shipowners, operators, charterers, commercial managers, ports, terminals, and service providers.
More than 30 leading maritime companies have signed a joint statement signalling their ambition to adopt optimisation strategies that will help reduce shipping emissions today while also preparing the industry for a more manageable long-term transition to a zero-emission future. The ambition statement covers collective actions in five main areas: data collection and transparency; contractual changes; pilot projects; ports, terminals, and value chains; and culture and leadership.