The future of Shipping KVNR A


nnet Koster is Director of the Royal Association of Netherlands Shipowners (KVNR).


At a global level, shipowners have set up a E5 billion plan to catalyse the decarbonisation of shipping. Is this the largest joint effort ever from the sector?


Annet: “As a global sector, shipping needs to take its responsibility. It is our understanding that this fund is the largest and most inclusive industry-led proposal. In addition to international action, Dutch shipowners are taking the lead in sustainable growth. Seagoing vessels are becoming more energy efficient as every new vessel is built. Sources of renewable energy will be used by the shipping industry in the near future, and renewable shore power is set to replace diesel generators. With emissions-free shipping as the ultimate goal, the starting point is, and will continue to be, a strong economic position for Dutch shipowners. This all leads us to the ‘triple A’ framework: Adjusting our way of sailing with Adapted vessels that use Alternative fuels.”


Could you explain this ‘triple A’ framework in more detail and other ambitions?


Annet: “To ensure that we can continue our progress we have defined three pillars of success. The starting points are that a) every new vessel is much cleaner and more energy efficient than its predecessor, b) existing vessels have regular refits and c) regulation facilitates greater sustainability in order to reach the goal of emissions-free sailing. Training crews and awareness of shipowners is crucial to reach these three pillars. Better interaction between ports and shipowners will result in shipping having a significantly lower carbon footprint.”


1. Reliable, long-term government policies supported by robust and risk-based monitoring in ports and at sea offer shipowners the confidence they need to embrace ‘green innovations’.


2. New business models form the base for investments and cooperation in the maritime sector that lead to a green fleet. Dedicated financial instruments such as international subsidies speed up the introduction of new technologies.


3. To set the pace towards a zero-emissions vessel, investment in innovation, pilot projects and cooperation with universities and knowledge institutes is crucial.


Do you see the further merging of shipping activity and energy production & storage activity?


Annet: “The climate triple A will be reality when all the relevant parties cooperate in the fields of international policy, finance and innovation:


A final note to make is that shipping is not an isolated sector. Collaboration is vital in order to achieve a successful energy transition. It is not so much about merging activities, but cross industry supply chain collaboration and courage between stakeholders, including financial services, is essential.”


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