74%of shipping companies have already been aligned or scheduled to align with the Zero Emittings of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), while biofuels (62%) are the dominant choice in the transition, with increasing interest in 25%(19%). Opinion presented during the recent International Conference "Maritime Cyprus 2025".
According to a statement, the findings of the research, which is being carried out in the framework of the international five -year Metavasea project, were presented at the conference by the Secretary General of the Cyprus Union of Marine Environment (CYMEPA), Dr Michalis Ieridis. The project, he said, aims at an anthropocentric transition of shipping to reduce carbon emissions through training, training and cooperation of all stakeholders.
The program is coordinated by Helmepa, with the support of Lloyd's Register Foundation, and with the participation of important partners such as CYMEPA, the Cyprus Marine & Maritime Institute (CMMI), the World Maritime University (WMU), the Mio-Ecsde, and other organizations, is noted.
In relation to the findings of the research, it is stated that the basic barriers found are high cost, ship compatibility, technological immaturity and complexity of the regulatory framework, while 64% of seafarers say that in the last two years, they have received no training related to carbon exemption. Also of particular concern is expressed about the fatigue of crews, with 70% of seafarers considering it the most serious issue of security.
On the part of the ports and civil society, research has shown that, despite progress, the infrastructure for low carbon fuel remains limited, while only 20% of ports offer refueling services with Very Low Sulfur Fuel Oil (VLSFO). In addition, 40% of ports are planning the onshore Power Systems (OPS) app, while another 40% have not yet planned any intervention.
Environmental awareness of coastal communities is high, as 97% of citizens are concerned about the effects of climate change on the local environment, and it is particularly important to record the perception that shipping is charged with a high rate of greenhouse gas pollution, while only 3%.
Dr. Peeridis said that the green transition of shipping is not only a technological, but mainly a human affair and noted that "we invest in the skills, security and environmental consciousness of all those associated with the sea". "Citizens' involvement is crucial, as their views help us plan a realistic, safe and centered transition," he added.
As part of the project, CYMEPA invites all interested parties, shipping professionals, port workers, students and citizens - to participate in the Metavasea online questionnaire.
Participation takes about 10 minutes and is anonymous and the results will be used for the design of program policies and training tools. The questionnaire is available at www.cymepa.org.cy/en/metavasea
"With the participation of everyone, Cyprus can be a model of sustainable and innovative shipping in the Eastern Mediterranean, actively contributing to the global effort to reduce emissions and protect the marine environment," the statement said.
