______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Opportunity for improvement
How a shared data reality can elevate collaboration across the supply chain . By Pelle Sommansson
The maritime industry plays a key role in the global supply chain and in powering the global economy . Estimates from the International Chamber of Shipping show that around 11 billion tons of goods are transported by ships each year , with shipping responsible for carrying 90 percent of world trade . Collaboration is key across the supply chain , to ensure that delays in deliveries are minimized .
This has typically been harder for the maritime industry due to its delayed digital transformation . However , the last few years have seen the sector accelerate digitalization , as new technologies have emerged that enable ship owners , operators and charterers to harness the benefits of the data they have within their organizations . This data can be used to enhance decision making , as the insights can be used to carry out more sustainable , more efficient , more profitable , and more transparent voyages .
Decarbonization action is needed
More sustainable operations across the global supply chain are a key objective for all stakeholders . In shipping in particular , regulatory pressure is mounting . There has been a series of action from the International Maritime Organization following its Initial Greenhouse Gas reduction strategy set out in 2018 , including the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index and Carbon Intensity Indicator regulations implemented in January 2023 . Similarly , shipping is set to be added to the EU ’ s Emissions Trading System ( ETS ) in 2024 , meaning there is a real urgency for shipping to make an impact on decarbonization in the immediate term .
This is also echoed throughout the supply chain , as transport providers such as the aviation industry also fall under the EU ETS and must all work together to combat emissions in line with the Paris Agreement . While shipping is accountable for around 940 million tonnes of CO 2 annually , this makes up around 2.5 percent of the world ’ s total CO 2 emissions . In contrast , the wider transport sector accounted for 7.2GT of emissions , or roughly 21 percent of the global total .
22