ABS Explores Sustainability Solutions and Energy Demand Challenges with Italian Shipping Executives

With a sharp focus on the energy transition and

sustainability initiatives impacting the industry, ABS hosted its annual

Italy National Committee meeting for leaders in the Italian shipping

community.

Italian, Swiss and Monaco-based charterers, designers and

shipbuilders heard about industry-leading ABS developments in

sustainability, safety and digital innovation in classification

services.

“ABS is supporting our clients and members with advanced solutions in technology and compliance, and we are pioneering

new sustainability strategies and services to help owners and operators

along their decarbonization journey. Thanks to our years-long, valuable

relationships in the region, our committee includes the diverse

expertise of many knowledgeable stakeholders, which provides powerful

insight to keep our industry in the forefront of the energy transition,”

said John McDonald, ABS Executive Vice President and COO.

Panos Koutsourakis, ABS Vice President, Global

Sustainability, shared a comprehensive report detailing decarbonization

programs impacting maritime operations. The committee heard how onboard

carbon capture systems, air hull lubrication, wind-assisted propulsion,

and artificial intelligence-powered real-time performance analytics will

likely play key roles in shipboard decarbonization strategies. They

also heard how emerging regional and global green ecosystems, involving

green shipping corridors, green shipbuilding and labeling, and energy

efficiency technology retrofits promise to move sustainability efforts

forward to the next level.

Details of ABS’ industry-leading safety performance, the

latest regulatory developments and market trends were shared by ABS

specialists.

ABS is one of the leading Classification organizations in

Italy thanks to long-standing relationships with the country’s marine

and offshore operators.

“This is a unique time in our history where we are challenged

with decarbonization goals while maintaining competitive, professional

and safe operations. ABS’ support for the industry is important at this

moment, and by bringing together this committee of leading industry

figures, we are able to work together on solutions and share knowledge.

That's why I am proud to continue my support of this committee as

chairman,” said Cesare d’Amico, ABS Italy National Committee Chairman

and CEO of D’Amico Società di Navigazione SpA.

The Committee meetings are a forum for ABS members, including

owners, operators, charterers, and industry representatives from flag

Administrations, owner associations, and the shipbuilding and insurance

sectors, to come together with ABS leaders and discuss industry issues

and developments. These forums are an important part of an ongoing

dialogue with the industry to address technical, operational and

regulatory challenges.