Eastern Mediterranean Shipping Firms Set More Climate Targets but Face Rising Barriers
A recent survey by the Hellenic Marine Environment Protection Association (HELMEPA) reveals that 22% of Eastern Mediterranean shipping companies now have net-zero strategies aligned with the International Maritime Organization's 2050 target, up from 14% previously. However, challenges are increasing, with financial constraints reported by 59% of respondents, limited ability to implement changes by 50%, and lack of awareness of solutions also at 50%.
The survey also highlights seafarers' safety concerns, with 69% citing fatigue due to added responsibilities from new regulations. Awareness of climate policies such as the EU Emissions Trading System and the IMO Greenhouse Gas Strategy has improved among seafarers, with 45% having received decarbonisation training in the past two years. Despite this, discrepancies remain between companies and seafarers on key skills like leadership and adaptability.
Alternative fuels like biofuels dominate current and planned usage, while digital skills and cybersecurity remain less prioritized, though concerns are growing. Findings come from over 2,000 participants including seafarers, companies, and port administrations, and were shared at the 3rd European Conference on Shipping. The ongoing METAVASEA project continues to monitor progress in maritime decarbonisation in the region.
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