Maritime & Marine
Published: January 29, 2024 | Updated: 29th January 2024
The future of green shipping was top of the agenda at a roundtable event convened by Maritime UK Solent.
It brought together the Department of Transport (DfT) with over 20 Solent-based and international maritime organisations.
They discussed and shared approaches for cleaner maritime fuels.
Anne-Marie Mountifield, Chair of Maritime UK Solent, said: “The transition to greener shipping is a key priority for the Solent’s maritime cluster.
“This was a fantastic opportunity to consider and compare transition plans for the maritime fuel switch, and the actions required by all involved to make it a success.
“The event was a concrete step towards collaboratively ensuring the Solent and the UK are well-positioned to retain our strategic position on the global maritime stage.”
Under discussion was the transition from carbon-based fuels to greener options to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Challenges and approaches to a green transition were also debated, including skills, infrastructure investment, technical challenges and how the government could assist industry.
The event was hosted by Wightlink.
The ferry company is leading the way on future fuels following the introduction of the hybrid cross-Solent ferry, Victoria of Wight.
Wightlink also provided ferry transport from Portsmouth to the meeting at Royal Victoria Yacht Club in Ryde.
Keith Greenfield, Wightlink Chief Executive, said: “We are all facing the common challenge of decarbonisation, but we have got a lot of skills and expertise in the Solent maritime sector.
“I’m optimistic that, between us, we can find solutions both for the near-future and the long-term.”
