ABS brought together maritime industry leaders to discuss the latest advances in sustainability and digital classification at the annual ABS Korean National Committee Meeting.

John McDonald, ABS Executive Vice President and COO, delivered a strong report card of ABS performance and fleet safety performance underscoring ABS’ focus on safety and its mission.

“ABS is at the forefront of the industry’s response to the decarbonization challenge, and we are proud to work with so many forward-looking owners and operators in Korea on a range of innovative projects. Because the sustainability challenge is too big for any one company to meet on its own, it is important that we work together, collaborating through joint development projects all over the world, including here in Korea,” said John McDonald, ABS Executive Vice President and COO.

Committee members were briefed on the latest developments in the dynamic regulatory environment and given a detailed breakdown of the industry’s sustainability challenges and ABS’ services for the industry.

They were given a glimpse of the future of classification, with presentations on the latest ABS technology advancements and pioneering developments in the field of digital class along with how ABS is advancing its industry-leading approach to continuous learning and development to prepare its workforce now and for the future.

The members also heard how the ABS-classed fleet had grown to 277 million gross tons and secured the number one position in global orderbook share. ABS maintains a leading position in the new construction market with Korean shipyards, especially in the sectors of containers, tankers and gas carriers. Korea is also leading with 49 percent of the ABS orderbook for dual-fuel vessel construction.

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.