A new Research Centre dedicated to advancing sustainable shipping has been launched by the University of Strathclyde in partnership with leading international shipping company Oldendorff Carriers.

Formally established during a signing ceremony at Strathclyde’s city centre campus, the Oldendorff Research Centre for Sustainable Shipping will drive actionable research to advance the decarbonisation of maritime operations, aligning global climate targets with operational realities at sea.

The Centre will address evidence gaps critical to an effective industry transition, focusing on technological, operational, and human factors, including the impacts of decarbonisation measures on crew.
Key research areas will also encompass the design of next-generation, energy-efficient vessels, the integration of alternative fuel systems, and the application of AI-driven decision-support systems.

Professor Stephen McArthur, Executive Dean of Engineering and Associate Principal, who signed on behalf of the University, said:

“We are pleased to be working in partnership with Oldendorff, uniting Strathclyde’s internationally recognised research capabilities with Oldendorff’s deep operational expertise and knowledge. 
By combining our strengths, we are creating new opportunities to drive forward the decarbonisation of the global shipping industry – an urgent challenge that demands innovative, practical solutions. We look forward to delivering impact together through research, technology development and knowledge exchange.”

Dr Torsten Barenthin, Director Research & Development, signed the research agreement on behalf of Oldendorff, and said:

“Decarbonising the maritime sector is the greatest operational challenge the industry faces and will continue to face in the years ahead. 
Addressing it requires not only collaboration, but also a willingness to engage with the difficult issues that remain unexamined in much of the current discourse. The Centre is designed to generate insights that extend beyond Oldendorff and deliver measurable impact across the global fleet.”

The collaboration also aims to advance the scientific evidence base that informs effective and practicable maritime policymaking. As part of the Centre activities, a scientific research paper on ‘Round-trip Efficiency of Various E-fuels’ is being prepared.