PH, Norway to cut GHG emissions
THE Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and Norway joined forces to advance sustainable practices in the maritime sector, including the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships.
Marina, the Royal Norwegian Embassy and the Norwegian Training Center discussed areas of collaboration for the benefit of seafarers and other maritime stakeholders to promote a safer and more energized maritime sector.
Ambassador Christian Lyster and the Norwegian Training Center provided valuable recommendations, particularly on adopting emerging maritime technologies, including alternative fuels for ships to reduce GHG emissions.
Marina Administrator Sonia Malaluan vowed to improve the capacity of technical personnel, seafarers, and related personnel to seamlessly integrate advanced technologies into the maritime industry. Malaluan unveiled a comprehensive 10-point agenda, aligning the Philippines with the 2023 International Maritime Organization (IMO) Strategy on the reduction of GHG emissions.
Malaluan and Lyster emphasized the significance of digitalization in streamlining frontline services. Marina’s 10-point agenda yielded tangible results, such as the streamlined issuance of Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificates.
The collaborative effort builds upon existing coordination between Marina and Norwegian maritime stakeholders, focusing on joint projects addressing marine environmental protection, with a specific focus on marine plastic litter, anti-fouling measures and ballast water management. This collaboration not only signifies a stronger bond between the two nations but also sets a promising course for a greener and more sustainable future in the maritime domain.
In a related development, Marina signed several memorandums of agreement with three countries — Canada, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Norway — and two international organizations — EUCrimario and Kongsberg Digital AS. These deals led to significant advancements in the maritime sector, fostering collaboration, technological exchange, and cooperation. The agreements were designed to address various aspects of maritime development, safety and efficiency.