UHI Orkney Leads Global Discussion on Hydrogen-Powered Ships at the United Nations
Key Ideas
- UHI Orkney's Head of Maritime Studies showcased the institution's expertise in clean maritime training and zero-emission vessel operations at the United Nations' IMO headquarters.
- The focus of the session was on the urgent need to train crews for new, greener fuels like hydrogen, methanol, ammonia, and battery-electric systems.
- The Maritime and Coastguard Agency now formally recognizes two hydrogen crew training courses developed by UHI Orkney, indicating the institution's leading role in this field.
- Mark Shiner highlighted the importance of Orkney's contribution to the transition to a cleaner maritime future and its role in training crew members for innovative vessels worldwide.
On June 20, Mark Shiner from UHI Orkney addressed around 130 international delegates at the United Nations' IMO headquarters in London. He spoke about the institution's role in advancing clean maritime training and zero-emission vessel operations. The session emphasized the need to train crews for new, greener fuels such as hydrogen, methanol, and ammonia. UHI Orkney has been at the forefront of this transition, with formally recognized hydrogen crew training courses. Mark Shiner expressed pride in showcasing Orkney's expertise globally and its impact on sustainability at a local level. The team's successful training of the crew of the world's first liquid hydrogen super yacht, MV Breakthrough, has led to growing demand for their specialized training. UHI Orkney's collaboration with vessel developers supported by the UK Government's Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition further cements its contribution to a cleaner, greener maritime future. The institution's significant role in promoting zero-emission ship technologies and international collaboration was evident at the IMO event, where ZESTAs delegation, including Mark, shared insights and developments in the sector.