Shipping making steady progress towards sustainability

The report highlights developments in the SSI’s key work streams, where members have worked collectively across the core areas that form the initiative.

These are the development and use of clean technologies and how to make efficient vessels more profitable via the SSI’s Save As You Sail financial concept; encouraging debate with stakeholders to address the challenges of responsible ship recycling; improving communication on the future of shipping; conducting research and analysing attitudes to life at sea and the development of a roadmap – to be launched in 2016 – that charts key milestones and areas to be addressed.

“Our second progress report shows the real developments that the SSI and its members are making, and the positive work that is being conducted among members and with many stakeholders in the shipping industry,” said Alastair Fischbacher, CEO of the SSI.

“The progress report demonstrates the real value of being a member of SSI. It highlights the sense of purpose and pride that comes from our members in positively contributing to our cause, by working on the front line, investing time, knowledge and expertise to pioneer new initiatives and progressive ways of thinking in order to create a more sustainable and profitable shipping industry,” he added.

While positive developments have been made, the report acknowledges the significant challenges that lie ahead. Specifically, the requirement for a strong regulatory framework designed and implemented by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) that supports the reduction of CO2 emissions, and delivery of the UNFCCC’s target of less than two degrees warming, as agreed at the recent COP 21 meeting.

It also shows the need for continued improvements in energy efficiency standards, as well as a need for change in relation to ocean governance and the sustainable and equitable use of ocean resources.

Alastair Fischbacher concluded: “There is no room for complacency, and we must be under no illusion of the significant challenges that lie ahead. But we have shown that when organisations within the industry come together to make a difference and drive more sustainable behaviours, great things can be achieved.”