As the call for lower carbon emissions intensifies, leaders and professionals across the maritime industry, energy, digital, offshore wind, and academia have deliberated on how to achieve marine decarbonization.

The experts who emphasized the importance of digitization and electrification in achieving maritime decarbonization gave their opinions at the 2023 Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology (IMarEST) conference.

The conference, which IMarEST hosted in partnership with the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), had its theme “Next Generation Marine Ecosystems:  Enabling Decarbonization, Digitalization, and Electrification for Sustainability,” and was held in October in Houston, U.S.

At the conference, discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities of using alternate ship fuels, such as hydrogen, methanol, ammonia, biofuels, LNG bunkering, and Nuclear; how electrification can lower emissions and fuel costs for the maritime sector; what to learn from existing projects on decarbonization, among others.

Ramachandra (Ram) Shenoy of RBR Group provided a comprehensive perspective on “Navigating the Journey of Decarbonization, Digitalization, & Electrification for Sustainability,” giving participants a techno-commercial lens to explore decarbonization options and pathways.

Also speaking at the conference, Anthony Teo of RightShip shed light on marine electrification, exploring the shift to battery/hybrid ships, shore power, and the challenges in vessel electrification.

On her part, Jennifer Trageser of ABS Wavesight emphasized the power of digitalization in driving predictability and reliability, leveraging technologies like Artificial intelligence, Machine Learning, blockchain, and a lot for enhanced monitoring and maintenance.

There were also presentations and panel discussions that dwelled on challenges and opportunities related to alternate ship fuels, transformative technologies in maritime decarbonization, modeling, simulation, green shipping corridors, and the use of nuclear power for commercial maritime applications.

“What a delightful and enthusiastic conference, bringing thought leaders and professionals from the Marine, Energy, Digital, Offshore Wind, and Academia!” said Dr. Nimi Abili, IMarEST Houston Branch Chairman, in a LinkedIn post.

“Many thanks to our Keynote Speakers, Moderators, and Panelists for setting the right tone direction, and generating interest and enthusiasm in this conference, which was necessary in bringing this impactful event to fruition.”

“My sincere gratitude to our esteemed sponsors NIMASA, Excelerate Energy, ABS, and Zentech Incorporated, whose support made this event possible. Special thanks to the organizing committee, IMarEST GCB executive committee, volunteers, and IMarEST staff in London for their dedication and effort,” said Rajnish Kelkar -Vice Chair, IMarEST Houston Branch, in a LinkedIn post.

“In this defining decade for maritime decarbonization, this conference provided a crucial platform for industry leaders to connect, share insights, and foster collaborations. IMarEST’s mission to promote scientific development and exchange of ideas was undeniably achieved, thanks to all attendees’ active participation and enthusiasm. Let’s continue to drive innovation, sustainability, and collaboration in the marine industry. Together, we can shape a greener and more efficient future.”