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.