ABS Solidifies Industry Leadership in Greece by Opening its Global Ship Systems Center and Establishing Hellenic Technical Committee

(Athens, Greece) ABS, a leading provider of classification and technical services to the marine and offshore industries, unveiled its Global Ship Systems Center and announced the formation of its Hellenic Technical Committee in Athens today.

"This cutting-edge facility brings together industry-recognized technical leaders to support clients throughout the entire lifecycle of their assets," said ABS Chairman, President and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki. "Leveraging our global technology leadership to assemble one of the most advanced technology centers in Greece only strengthens our Rule development and advisory to the industry globally, and we are honored to establish such a credentialed Technical Committee here in direct support of these efforts."

Through a systems-based approach, the Global Ship Systems Center addresses the increasing complexity of mechanical and cyber-enabled systems onboard vessels. As these systems are increasingly interconnected and optimized, a more advanced approach to address design and construction is required.

"As vessel system complexity evolves, so must the industry's rules and guidance to fully support a systems-based approach," said ABS Executive Vice President for Global Marine Dr. Kirsi Tikka. "Our commitment to set standards for safety and excellence as one of the world's leading classification organizations is based on the rules and standards we develop and refine, and the global industry experience and input from our Technical Committee members in Greece is invaluable."

Led by Dr. Elias Kariambas, Director of the ABS Global Ship Systems Center, the ABS team already is leading nearly 40 projects covering topics such as ABS CyberSafetyR, shafting and propulsion, LNG as fuel, control and automation, engine operations and maintenance, vessel performance, and emission controls, among others. The team collaborates with clients on innovative projects ranging from applications of advanced analysis on design, construction and operations to techno-economic evaluations of regulatory compliance options.

Aligning with local and world-leading universities and research centers, the ABS Global Ship Systems Center will offer a premier research and development capability to help address today's industry issues while determining tomorrow's solutions.

In support of the Global Ship Systems Center, ABS assembled its Hellenic Technical Committee to actively participate in the development and updating of standards used in the design, construction and surveys of vessels, other marine and offshore structures and a host of specialized systems.

Dr. Chris Leontopoulos, ABS Technology Manager, will chair the Hellenic Technical Committee which is comprised of more than 20 key technical professionals in the maritime industry, representing owners, operators and owner associations. The Committee brings together ABS and industry leaders to discuss pertinent technical industry issues and developments. The meetings are an important part of an ongoing dialogue with industry to improve and enhance the ABS Rules and guidance globally.

About ABS

Founded in 1862, ABS is a leading international classification organization devoted to promoting the security of life and property and preserving the natural environment through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction and operational maintenance of marine and offshore assets.

 

Summer has arrived along with HELMEPA’s new summer campaign poster of our beloved “Seagull” to remind us that if we want to continue enjoying our country’s beaches, we have to keep them clean and trash-free.

Unfortunately, the data recorded by thousands of volunteers during HELMEPA’s recent cleanup campaign shows that seas and beaches are under intense pressure from increased quantities of mainly plastic and other waste items.

More than 7,000 children-members of the “HELMEPA Junior” Program throughout Greece are already spreading this message in their localities by disseminating the copies of the poster we sent them.

Posters are also being sent to HELMEPA’s Members and cooperating entities, such as Port and Local Authorities, yacht/sailing clubs and maritime museums, environmental education centers, environmental and cultural associations.

The message for Clean Seas and Beaches is also being digitally spread through the Seagull’s TV spot, which was once again approved by the Greek National Council for Radio and Television and it is already being broadcasted gratis by national and regional TV stations. Continuous information is also provided through collaborating radio stations and social media.

So lets us all make an effort not only to keep our seas trash-free, but also to raise awareness for Clean Seas and Beaches, which constitutes our country’s real wealth!

For further information and requests to receive the new “Seagull” poster, please contact HELMEPA’s Environmental Awareness Sector, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., tel (+30) 210 9343088.

Friends and supporters of HELMEPA who wish to be informed on the wider work and activities of the Association  may read the 2016 Annual Report, which was distributed at the recent General Assembly and is sent by post to the Members and other shipping organizations in Greece and worldwide.

In an atmosphere full of excitement, at the Yacht Club of Greece, hundreds of supporters and friends, along with Mrs Fotini P. Livanos, celebrated on Tuesday 6 June, 35 years of operation of the Hellenic Marine Environment Protection Association-HELMEPA, founded on the initiative of the late George P. Livanos.

Members of the Parliament, State officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, the Hellenic Coast Guard Commandant, the Chief of the Fleet, the President of the UGS, former Chairmen of HELMEPA, members of the Greek and international maritime community, Presidents and Directors of AUSMEPA-Australia, CYMEPA-Cyprus, NAMEPA-North America και TURMEPA-Turkey as well as representatives of Greek and foreign shipping press honored the event, which was coordinated by the journalist Ms Niki Lymberaki.

The TV spot with the "Seagull" of 1984, a video with facts and achievements of the 35year long work of HELMEPA and the presenter's statement that her generation grew up with the message "no garbage, no plastic in the seas and on beaches", provided the basis upon which Dr. George Gratsos, Chairman of the Board of Directors presented a brief account of the association's work in his address. He referred to the voluntary contribution of HELMEPA in the maritime training of Greek officers, the environmental awareness of the wider public and the students as well as the creation of similar associations in 7 more countries.

"Shipowners and seafarers, inspired by George P. Livanos, co-signed in 1982 a joint declaration with which HELMEPA operates and will continue to do so as long as Greek shipping exists" , emphasized Dr Matthaios D. Los, Founding Member of the association and Treasurer of the Union of Greek Shipowners.

On behalf of the 15,000 Greek member seafarers, the President of Union of Masters and Mates of the Greek Merchant Marine, Captain Manolis Tsikalakis, underlined that "Greek mariners believe in HELMEPA, which with its work contributed also in their being treated with respect by national maritime administrations."

"The work and example of HELMEPA offer Greece a special distinction, comparable to the advantageous position of the Greek owned fleet within global shipping. It took the vision, creativity and faith of a great Greek shipowner and patriot - George P. Livanos - for Greece to express the best its maritime tradition has to show" stated Mr. Basil Phr. Papachristidis, second HELMEPA Chairman, in his address read by Ms. Lymberaki.

Honoring Mr. Andreas Potamianos, who served HELMEPA's goals for a number of years as Member of the Board, Dr. G. Gratsos bestowed him a commemorative placard. In his thanking address, Mr. Potamianos praised the vision of the late G.P. Livanos and spoke on HELMEPA's achievements through his personal experiences, specifically at the beginning.

Also honored at the event was Captain John Tsenembis, associate member of HELMEPA since 1983, first and for many years instructor at the association's seminars. In his brief speech, he referred to his personal memories from the first years of this initiative of Greek shipping, which he still serves. Presenting him with a commemorative placard, Mr. Paul Ioannidis, associate Member and Member of the first Board of Directors, stressed the fact that HELMEPA was the first to accept and implement in its training the safety spirit with which the global aviation industry was already operating.

Moving on from maritime training to the environmental education of children, Mr. Nikos Tsakos, former Chairman of HELMEPA, presented Mrs Carmen Constantakopoulos with a commemorative placard in appreciation of the support of her late husband Capt. Vassilis Constantakopoulos to "HELMEPA Junior" program, which is continued by his sons and Costamare Shipping. Mrs Constantakopoulos expressed her warm gratitude to all those who contribute to the environmental awareness of the younger generation.

HELMEPA was exposed for the first time to the international shipping in 1985, participating in the Seatrade exhibition in New York and since then is present at every "Posidonia" with the initiative of their founder Mr. Themistocles Vokos, Honorary Member of HELMEPA. In his address, Mr. Vokos expressed his admiration to the vision of George Livanos and all the contributors to the successful evolution of the association, to what it offers to maritime training and environmental education and wished that this work continues for many years to come.

The Commandant of the Hellenic Coast Guard, Vice-Admiral Stamatis Raptis referred to the long standing cooperation of the Coast Guard with HELMEPA. Similarly, Vice-Admiral Ioannis Pavlopoulos, Chief of the Fleet, thanked the association for the gratis participation of Hellenic Navy personnel in its training programs.

First classification Associate Member was American Bureau of Shipping-ABS and on the reasons for which they supported this voluntary initiative from the very beginning, referred Mr. Dimitris Houliarakis, at the time prominent member of ABS staff.

Significant to the successful growth of HELMEPA was and remains the contribution of Associate Member Companies. Commemorative honorary placards were presented to the representatives of the first 3 Associate Members as well as for the extra support to HELMEPA's needs. To Mr. Vassilios Kroustallis, Senior Vice President, ABS Europe, to Mr. George Teriakidis, Regional Business Development Manager, DNV GL and Mr. Theodossis Stamatellos, Area Manager, Greece, East Mediterranean and Adriatic, Lloyd's Register. All of them in their respective addresses praised the association for its constant voluntary contribution to shipping and the wider community, renewing their commitment to continue supporting it in the future.

Congratulations and wishes for continuation of its work expressed also to the Members of the Board and the Secretariat of HELMEPA the 300 Greek and foreign guests who honored the event during the reception that followed, closing a enjoyful evening. The guests were offered, as a symbolic souvenir of the 35th anniversary, the special, well designed in English issue of "Naftika Chronika", which its editors had the initiative of dedicating to the 35 years of HELMEPA with data derived from the association's records.

Seanergy Maritime Holdings Corp., announced that it has entered into a time charter contract with a major European utility and energy company for its recently delivered Capesize vessel.

The 2012-built M/V Partnership will commence a period employment of about twelve to eighteen months and is expected to generate approximately $8.8 million of gross revenue, assuming the full 18 months employment.

Stamatis Tsantanis, the Company’s Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, commented: “We are pleased to announce a period employment contract for our most recent Capesize acquisition. The strong rate achieved supports our projections for continued improvement in the Capesize market and overall dry bulk sector.

“Assuming the full 18 months employment, this time charter is expected to generate approximately $8.8 million of gross revenue, offering a considerable return on our most recent investment.”

About Seanergy Maritime Holdings Corp.

Seanergy Maritime Holdings Corp. is an international shipping company that provides marine dry bulk transportation services through the ownership and operation of dry bulk vessels. The Company currently owns a modern fleet of eleven dry bulk carriers, consisting of nine Capesizes and two Supramaxes, with a combined cargo-carrying capacity of approximately 1,682,582 dwt and an average fleet age of about 8.1 years.

The Company is incorporated in the Marshall Islands with executive offices in Athens, Greece and an office in Hong Kong. The Company's common shares and class A warrants trade on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbols “SHIP” and “SHIPW”, respectively.

www.seanergymaritime.com

DNV GL and Samsung Heavy Industries. Co., Ltd (SHI) signed a joint development project (JDP) agreement focused on the development of new LNG carrier designs. Mun-Keun Ha, Senior Executive Vice President of SHI, and Tommy Bjørnsen, DNV GL’s Regional Manager Maritime Korea & Japan, signed the agreement at the DNV GL Group head office in Høvik, during Nor-Shipping week.

(L to R): Tommy Bjørnsen, Regional Manager Korea & Japan, DNV GL – Maritime, Mun-Keun Ha, Senior Executive Vice President, SHI, and Remi Eriksen, DNV GL Group President & CEO.

“The present business environment requires that the shipping industry moves further towards eco-friendly operations due to environmental concerns, recent international regulations, as well as rises in fuel oil prices,” said Mun-Keun Ha. “As leaders in reacting to new market trends in their specialized fields, this new joint development project between DNV GL and SHI will improve the business strategies of both parties.”

The JDP aims to develop two 30K LNG carrier designs, one with membrane type LNG tanks and one with type-C (pressurized) LNG tanks. The scope of the JDP covers the design review, safety analysis, market research, various structural and safety evaluations, and if successful will culminate in the award of an Approval in Principle (AiP) from DNV GL.

“We are very pleased that SHI has chosen us to participate in the project, trusting our expertise in the gas carrier sector,” says Tommy Bjørnsen. “Offering owners and operators more options to manage their operations more efficiently and sustainably is important in today’s extremely competitive market. We look forward to the further development of the design and its future success.”

The idea for a 30K LNG carrier originates from SHI's own research. SHI decided to develop both membrane and type C designs in parallel to give owners more options and expects that some owners may opt for type-C tanks on smaller tonnage, as is common in LNG bunkering vessels.

About DNV GL

Driven by our purpose of safeguarding life, property and the environment, DNV GL enables organizations to advance the safety and sustainability of their business. We provide classification, technical assurance, software and independent expert advisory services to the maritime, oil & gas and energy industries. We also provide certification services to customers across a wide range of industries. Operating in more than 100 countries, our professionals are dedicated to helping our customers make the world safer, smarter and greener.

About DNV GL – Maritime

DNV GL is the world’s leading classification society and a recognized advisor for the maritime industry. We enhance safety, quality, energy efficiency and environmental performance of the global shipping industry – across all vessel types and offshore structures. We invest heavily in research and development to find solutions, together with the industry, that address strategic, operational or regulatory challenges. For more information visit www.dnvgl.com/maritime

At the Nor-Shipping trade fair in Oslo, project partners BHP, Fortescue, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), Rio Tinto, SDARI, U-Ming, Woodside, and DNV GL presented the results from stage one of their “Green Corridor” joint industry project (JIP).

Green Corridor

The JIP has demonstrated the commercial potential and technical feasibility of LNG-fuelled bulkers in a "green corridor" iron ore and coal trade between Australia and China. The result is an LNG-fuelled Newcastlemax design which is in the process of receiving Approval in Principle (AiP) from DNV GL.

The idea of developing LNG-fuelling infrastructure for the vessels operating on the Australia–China iron ore and coal trade route has been contemplated by major charterers, ship owners and operators for many years. As LNG production has climbed, especially in Australia, and in recognition of the upcoming IMO restrictions on sulphur emissions, the option of LNG as a single-system solution for emissions compliance has become ever more attractive.

“This JIP has shown that by bringing together partners from across the industry to investigate alternative compliance options that account for market and trade route characteristics, such as safety and ease of operation, cargo and fuel flexibility, energy efficiency and economic viability, we can arrive at unique solutions that fulfil owners and operators’ requirements, as well as being in full compliance with international rules and regulations,” said Morten Løvstad, DNV GL – Maritime Business Director Bulk Carriers. “By having both charterers and ship owners as active partners in the JIP, we are also optimistic that this new design will materialize into firm orders in the near future.”

Chinese ship designer SDARI developed the design of the 210,000 dwt Newcastlemax bulk carrier based on their highly energy efficient Green Dolphin design. Dual fuel engines were quickly decided upon by the JIP partners, as this is a mature technology with multiple suppliers offering solutions, and the dual fuel design providing operational redundancy.

Based on fuel consumption analyses an LNG fuel tank size of approximately 6000 m3 was found to be optimal, with bunkering in Australia for the round-trip. Several locations for the LNG fuel tank were considered, and finally the optimal solution was found – with the two LNG fuel tanks placed directly above the engine room and submerged a few metres below the main deck. This innovative design offers protection for the fuel tanks, enhances fire protection, and does not reduce the cargo carrying capacity, even for volumetric cargoes such as coal.

“We hope this mutual collaboration will contribute to building the positive momentum of the industry to meet environmental and social requirements. We would like to renew our commitment to promote the further development of environmental technologies to achieve more sustainable ocean transportation,” said Toshiaki Tanaka, Managing Executive Officer, Director General, Dry Bulk Business Unit from Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd.

“An important part of the JIP was conducting the financial feasibility study for the design,” said Mike Utsler, Woodside Chief Operations Officer. “We looked at a wide range of capital and operational costs, including LNG and low sulfur fuel oil price sensitivities, as well as conducting a high-level bunker supply chain assessment. Based on this we found that, under the most realistic scenario, the payback period for the design was under 10 years, and under the optimistic projection just 6.7 years.”

“This joint industry project has shown us the power of a collaborative approach to a regulatory step change,” said David O'Brien, Principal Advisor, Rio Tinto. “Outside the JIP, we can be partners, competitors, suppliers and principals but inside the JIP, the common goal is clear and has shown to be achievable. We strongly support this type of collective industry approach when faced with an uncertain target.”

“As a member of the global shipping community, U-Ming continuously explores the latest technology and business models to enhance the protection of the environment,” said C.K. Ong, President of U-Ming Marine Transport Corp. “The 'Green Corridor' JIP is a collaboration of expertise and competence from like-minded people working towards a common goal. We truly believe the Green Dolphin 210 would result in an outstanding ecological footprint and business performance. By teamwork, we go further.”

The new, innovative Newcastlemax design developed in the "Green Corridor" JIP offers unique solutions for cost efficient, safe and flexible operations. By gathering key stakeholders representing the wider value chain of iron ore and coal transportation, a more robust, commercially viable and safe LNG-fuelled bulk carrier design has been developed, to a stage where it is ready to serve as the outline specification for newbuilding orders in 2017.

Vessel main particulars:

■ Length overall: 300.0m

■ Breadth: 50.0m

■ Depth: 25.2m

■ Scantling draught: 18.5m

■ Deadweight at scantling draught: 210,000t

■ Cargo holds volume: 225,000m3

■ LNG tanks volume: 6,000m3

■ Main engine: WINGD 6X72 DF MAN B&W 6G70ME-C9.5-GI

■ Class notation: DNV GL, +A1 BULKCARRIER ESP BC-A GRAB[35] CSR, Holds 2, 4 ,6 and 8 may be empty, COAT-PSPC(B) GAS FUELLED

The project partners of the "Green Corridor" Joint Industry Project (JIP) came together for a meeting at the DNV GL Group headquarters in Høvik this week. They also presented the results from stage one of the JIP at the Nor-Shipping trade fair today.

 

 

About BHP

BHP is a leading global resources company. The company is among the world's largest producers of major commodities, including iron ore, metallurgical coal, copper and uranium, and has substantial interests in conventional and unconventional oil and gas and energy coal.

About Fortescue

Fortescue Metals Group is a global leader in the iron ore industry, recognised for its culture, innovation and industry-leading development of world class infrastructure and mining assets in the Pilbara, Western Australia. Since it was founded in 2003, Fortescue has discovered and developed major iron ore deposits and constructed some of the most significant mines in the world. Now producing 165–170 million tonnes of iron ore per annum, the company has grown to be one of the largest global iron ore producers and is focussed on its vision of being the safest, lowest cost, most profitable iron ore producer.

About Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL)

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL), founded in 1884, is one of the world's leading shipping companies headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The company operates more than 800 of various types of vessels, including tankers, dry bulkers such as iron ore carriers, coal carriers and woodchip carriers, liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers, car carriers and containerships. MOL and its group companies also provide business other than international shipping, such as terminal and logistics services, cruise ships, ferries, coastal liners and others. For more information, please visit www.mol.co.jp/en/

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a leading global mining and metals group that focuses on finding, mining, processing and marketing the Earth’s mineral resources. We have been in business for more than 140 years and remain focused on a long-term horizon. Our approach is driven by an enduring and proven strategy. It sees us invest in and operate long-life, low-cost, expandable operations in the most attractive industry sectors. Our world-class assets are run by a company of world-class people: a 55,000-strong workforce spanning more than 40 countries. We foster a culture where our people keep their safety, and that of their workmates, at the top of their minds; where every person understands how they can create and preserve value for the business; and where diversity and innovation are embraced. We produce a diverse suite of minerals and metals that enable the world to grow and develop. Our contribution to sustainable development is integral to how we do business. It is a fundamental consideration in how we manage the business, seeking long-term mutually beneficial outcomes for our business and our stakeholders. Our approach is underpinned by our values of respect, integrity, teamwork and accountability. Combined with the strength provided by our people and our assets, they help form the foundations of our long-term success.

About SDARI

SDARI is a ship design consultant under China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) with more than 600 employees. SDARI is the market leader in merchant ship design and development in China and has accumulated more than 1,000 as-built designs in the past five decades.  For more information visit http://sdari.cssc.net.cn/Contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

About U-Ming

U-Ming Marine Transport Corporation (U-Ming), formerly named as Yue Ming Transportation Co., was established in 1984 to provide marine transportation of cement, dry commodities and industrial raw materials, specializing in the trading of vessels and providing agency services. The company’s philosophy is firmly established from the foundation of Far Eastern Group’s motto “Sincerity, Diligence, Thrift, Prudence and Innovation”. With this motto, we are committed to attaining a higher value of the company and thus set our minds on “value-adding” to our customers, employees and shareholders as our corporate philosophy.

About Woodside

We are Australia’s most experienced liquefied natural gas operator, with a reputation for reliability, efficiency and operational excellence. Our producing assets in Australia include the landmark North West Shelf Project, which has been operating since 1984. In 2012, we commenced production from the Pluto LNG Plant and expect to add additional volumes from our non-operated Wheatstone LNG interests in mid-2017. We have significant equity interests in high-quality development opportunities in Australia, Canada, Senegal and Myanmar and operate a fleet of floating production storage and offloading vessels.  Our global exploration portfolio includes emerging and frontier provinces in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region, the Atlantic Margins, Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. We continue to expand our capabilities in marketing, trading and shipping and have enduring relationships that span more than 25 years with foundation customers throughout the Asia-Pacific.

About DNV GL

Driven by our purpose of safeguarding life, property and the environment, DNV GL enables organizations to advance the safety and sustainability of their business. We provide classification, technical assurance, software and independent expert advisory services to the maritime, oil & gas and energy industries. We also provide certification services to customers across a wide range of industries. Operating in more than 100 countries, our professionals are dedicated to helping our customers make the world safer, smarter and greener.

About DNV GL – Maritime

DNV GL is the world’s leading classification society and a recognized advisor for the maritime industry. We enhance safety, quality, energy efficiency and environmental performance of the global shipping industry – across all vessel types and offshore structures. We invest heavily in research and development to find solutions, together with the industry, that address strategic, operational or regulatory challenges. For more information visit www.dnvgl.com/maritime

European Transport Ministers adopted today conclusions on the priorities for the EU’s maritime transport policy until 2020.

The conclusions endorse the content of the so-called “Valletta Declaration” adopted at the informal ministerial conference organised by the Maltese Presidency end of March.

“With the current EU strategy for maritime transport policy 2009-2018 coming to an end in less than two years’ time, we are pleased that the Council is identifying what to prioritise next”, commented ECSA Secretary General Patrick Verhoeven. “The conclusions adopted today set out the right priorities and challenges: competitiveness, simplification and digitalisation, decarbonisation and the reduction of air emissions”, he added.

ECSA believes that these priorities must be developed beyond 2020 and calls for an ambitious shipping strategy for the period 2019-2028. For EU shipping to flourish, it needs a stable, forward looking policy and regulatory framework with a global orientation.

“European shipping is a strong global player. This should be cherished and the EU’scompetitive position should be further enhanced”, Patrick Verhoeven said.

European shipowners engage themselves to work with the EU institutions and stakeholders to achieve the following:

1. Effective implementation of the maritime state-aid guidelines to allow for new growth opportunities of the maritime cluster and more competitiveness.

2. Ambitious trade deals to keep global markets open.

3. Simplification and rationalisation of administrative formalities and the establishment of a true single market for shipping.

4. The establishment of global CO2 reduction objectives and measures through the International Maritime Organization.

5. The promotion of maritime careers in the EU.

ecsa.eu

The Steering Committee of the International Marine Environment Protection Association-INTERMEPA met on Wednesday 7 June at the Metropolitan Hotel in Athens, on the occasion of HELMEPA's 35th Anniversary event.

Present at the meeting were the following Committee members: Mr Warwick Norman, Chairman of AUSMEPA and INTERMEPA, Mr George Tsavliris, Chairman of CYMEPA, Dr George Gratsos, HELMEPA Chairman along with Messrs Dimitris Mitsatsos and Nikos Gerassimou, Director General and Legal Advisor respectively and Mr Aksit Ozkural, General Manager of TURMEPA.

During a working lunch, the members of the Steering Committee exchanged ideas towards strengthening the cooperation of the members of INTERMEPA. Expressing all the members, the Chairman Mr W. Norman congratulated HELMEPA for its 35th anniversary as well as Mrs Sadan Kaptanoglu, Vice-Chairperson of INTERMEPA for being elected the first ever President Designate of BIMCO.

On the occasion of World Oceans Day, which is celebrated on 8th June 2017, the members of INTERMEPA, AUSMEPA in Australia, CYMEPA in Cyprus, HELMEPA in Greece, NAMEPA in North America, TURMEPA in Turkey, UKRMEPA in Ukraine and URUMEPA in Uruguay, honor the theme of this important Day "Our Οceans, Our Future" as it reflects their philosophy.

"The protection of the marine environment and exploitation of ocean resources are compatible providing humans exercise care, restraint and understanding" as mentioned in the inaugural Declaration of the MEPAs and INTERMEPA.

Synergy between all the stakeholders of the "blue sector", in various parts of the world, is an essential element towards effectively addressing the challenges facing the oceans in order to ensure their sustainable future along with that of the world at large.

 

Papagiannopoulos has set three clear themes for his two-year presidential term. The first is to promote digitalisation across the industry. BIMCO will be working on a range of projects using convergent technologies to pursue this objective, including applying new advances in software capability to develop a brand new contract editing tool.

Papagiannopolous said;

"BIMCO is focused on driving efficiency, creating better information and increasing simplification, but all of our work to increase digitalisation across the industry comes with a risk, and in everything – our work on cyber safety and security will remain a top priority, ensuring that our members’ ships are safe, that their seafarers are aware of the dangers and our members’ important information is secure."

Promoting digitalisation will be key to achieving the president’s second theme, which is to reduce the administrative burden for the ship’s master. An administrative burden that BIMCO will be working to lift further through the removal of unnecessary regulations which no longer serve a purpose for the safe operation of ships.

Last but not least, the third theme is to encourage the successful implementation and effective enforcement of new stronger environmental regulations – clarifying the obligations and working to ensure regulations are practical and realistic to implement. BIMCO will help shipowners navigate the Ballast Water Management Convention, by highlighting the key dates and advising on equipment selection and the operational realities. BIMCO will also continue to work with other associations and the IMO to help establish a feasible and practical implementation plan to meet the 2020 global cap on sulphur emissions.

Following Papagiannopolous’s election, BIMCO confirmed that Sadan Kaptanoglu, managing director of HI Kaptanoglu Shipping has been elected as BIMCO’s very first female President Designate. Papagiannopoulos applauded her election saying that she was an inspiration to women across the industry and her appointment marked the organisation’s commitment to successful collaboration between nations, genders and beliefs.

Finally, he noted that while the shipowners’ association is very different today to the original body established in 1905, BIMCO remains committed to being its members’ trusted partner, through the provision of outstanding practical, technical and contractual advice, and he concluded saying:

"like The Odyssey, BIMCO will navigate through rough waters with caution, without fear and looking to the future with confidence based on expertise and experience."

BIMCO

BHP Billiton is studying the introduction of giant, automated cargo ships to carry everything from iron ore to coal as part of a strategic shift that may disrupt the $334 billion global shipping industry. Bloomberg's David Stringer reports on "Bloomberg Markets." (Source: Bloomberg)

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2017-06-07/inside-bhp-s-plan-for-autonomous-shipping-video