Acheon Akti Navigation had a significant presence at both the 2nd CSN Crewing conference in Greece and the 2nd CSN Crewing conference in Cyprus, held last May. Representing the company, HR & Crewing Manager Mr. Sofoklis Constantinou participated in a panel discussion alongside other shipping industry experts. The focus of the discussion was on the energy transition and the pivotal role seafarers play in achieving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals.

Mr. Constantinou had the opportunity to discuss the necessity of the ship management companies to re-engineer their processes and their management concepts. Furthermore, he underlined that there is a need to align with the new trends and requirements of ESG and the strategies that are required to implement, in order for such companies to position themselves as leaders in sustainability and responsibility, to gain competitive advantage, for cost saving and efficiency, and enhance their reputation and brand value.

Mr. Constantinou emphasized the importance of proper crew planning for ship operators to achieve ESG readiness of the seafarers and the alignment with sustainability objectives. He explained how the recruiting, training, and managing of seafarers, with a focus on ESG considerations can the ship operators can enhance their operational efficiency, mitigate their risks, and contribute to a more sustainable maritime industry.

Mr. Constantinou concluded by stressing that enhancing seafarers’ readiness and compliance with ESG requirements is crucial for sustainable operations and involves implementing various practices. He analysed how education and training, clear communication, leadership support, access to resources, partnerships and collaborations with industry stakeholders, monitoring, reporting, adaptability and flexibility can improve, among other best practices, the understanding and the readiness of seafarers. Moreover, the above practices allow an organization to foster a culture of sustainability and responsibility.

Elias Constantinou, Acheon Akti Navigation Chief Operating Officer participated as a speaker at the  1st CSN Cyprus Maritime Supply Chain and Vessels Performance Forum,  in Athens 13^thMarch and Limassol 20 its  where together with other esteemed members of the shipping community discussed and presented his views on Building resilient, efficient and sustainable Maritime Supply Chains in the era of post-pandemic and to what extent  the industry is willing to go.