Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV), a leading classification and certification body, is calling for a fundamental transformation in how the maritime industry is financed, fueled, and operated to meet long-term sustainability and decarbonization objectives.
The message is detailed in a newly released book by Matthieu de Tugny, Executive Vice-President of BV’s Marine & Offshore division. Titled Toward a Sustainable Blue Economy, the publication outlines a comprehensive vision for reshaping the maritime sector amid growing environmental challenges and regulatory pressures. It follows the earlier volume Shaping a Better Maritime World, released in 2022.
In the book, de Tugny acknowledges the progress made over recent years—particularly the adoption of new technologies aimed at lowering emissions—but argues that existing financial and operational structures are still heavily tied to the availability and stable pricing of fossil fuels, especially fuel oil. This, he says, presents a significant obstacle to the industry’s transition toward low- and zero-carbon alternatives.
A Call for Systemic Change
Shipping, as part of the global ocean economy valued at over $2.2 trillion and supporting more than 600 million jobs, must evolve beyond its traditional risk-averse approach, de Tugny asserts. He advocates for stronger commitments to green financing, where investments are closely aligned with climate performance targets. In addition, he emphasizes the importance of industry-wide collaboration and stakeholder engagement to challenge entrenched business models.
“The maritime sector is navigating an era of unprecedented uncertainty while attempting to reduce its environmental footprint,” de Tugny commented. “Realizing a sustainable blue economy requires a dual strategy: reimagining the systems and infrastructure that depend on fossil fuels, while taking practical, incremental steps to advance innovation and resilience.”
Role of Classification Societies Evolving
De Tugny also points to the evolving responsibilities of classification societies like BV. No longer solely focused on regulatory compliance and assurance, these organizations are increasingly acting as catalysts for change—supporting the development of alternative technologies and enabling collaborative efforts across the industry.
“BV remains committed to protecting both seafarers and the marine environment,” he said. “This includes supporting safety-enhancing technologies and environmental initiatives, such as efforts to curb plastic pollution in maritime operations.”
A Blueprint for Maritime Transformation
Titled Toward a Sustainable Blue Economy, the book positions the maritime industry as a steward of the world’s oceans at a time of critical environmental urgency. De Tugny describes the publication as both a strategic guide and a call to action for industry leaders to rethink established norms and unlock a more sustainable future. By urging a shift in financial frameworks, operational models, and collaborative practices, BV is reinforcing its stance that achieving a sustainable maritime future will depend on holistic, forward-thinking strategies that balance innovation with practical execution.
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