SUMMARY OF THE BOOK “MARITIME DIGITALIZATION AND DECARBONIZATION: A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE”

This book is a compilation of papers and research presented during the 2024 World Maritime University (WMU) Maritime Week. It focuses on two key transformational trends shaping the future of the global maritime sector: digitalization and decarbonization, with the goal of achieving a sustainable future. The book is divided into four main sections:

Part I: Technology

• Discusses advanced technologies such as Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), including sensor technologies, safety assurance processes, verification and validation (V&V), with a particular focus on projects and trials conducted in Korea (Chapters 1 & 2).
• Addresses cyber resilience throughout a ship’s lifecycle, the role of stakeholders, and relevant standards (IACS UR E26, E27) (Chapter 3).
• Analyzes decarbonization technologies, including alternative fuels (green methanol, green ammonia, green hydrogen, biofuels), onboard carbon capture systems (OCCS), battery-powered electric propulsion (including swappable roll-on/roll-off battery systems), and emphasizes the importance of international collaboration (Chapters 4, 5, 6, 15).
• Introduces data- and AI-driven approaches to optimize smart port logistics, with case studies from Korea (Chapter 7).

Part II: Regulation

• Reviews the International Maritime Organization (IMO)’s response to safety and security challenges posed by emerging technologies (digitalization, AI), and the development process of the MASS Code (Chapter 8).
• Explores cyber-physical security, socio-technical risks, and emerging cyber threats in the regulatory context of MASS (Chapter 9).
• Discusses the use of electronic bills of lading, especially the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR), as a tool to support the digital trade ecosystem (Chapter 10).

Part III: Policy

• Draws lessons from the history of maritime innovation (Chapter 11).
• Analyzes trends and impacts of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road using the PESTEL framework (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, Legal) (Chapter 12).
• Evaluates the status, challenges, and lessons in capacity-building for Aids to Navigation (AtoN) and Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) (Chapter 13).
• Explores how to shape the future of seafaring in an era of safer, smarter, and greener shipping, offering policy recommendations and action strategies (Chapter 14).

Part IV: Information Papers

• Proposes low-cost, high-impact solutions and roadmaps for the adoption of wind propulsion systems (Chapter 15).
• Introduces the S-100 standard from the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and its importance as a “digital twin” of navigable waters (Chapter 16).
• Highlights the activities of the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU) in building global capacity through Maritime Education and Training (MET) (Chapter 17).

Key Message

The book underscores that the dual transition—digitalization and decarbonization—is both inevitable and essential for a sustainable maritime future. This transformation requires technological innovation, regulatory adaptation, policy support, international cooperation, and most importantly, the development of a suitably skilled workforce.

Guidance for Vietnamese Maritime Students on Sustainable Trends and Development Opportunities

1. Understanding the Global and National Context:

• Global Trends Are Unavoidable: Emphasize that digitalization and decarbonization are global trends with direct implications for Vietnam’s maritime sector. Students should proactively learn and prepare for these transformations.
• Vietnam’s Commitments: Vietnam has made commitments to sustainable development and emission reductions. The maritime sector plays a vital role in fulfilling these commitments.

2. Key Trends and Opportunities in Digitalization:

       2.1 Smart Ports:

• Learning from Experience: Case studies from Korea (Chapter 7) show the potential of AI, IoT, and big data to optimize port operations, reduce congestion, and enhance logistics efficiency—applicable to Vietnamese ports like Cai Mep and Hai Phong.
• Career Prospects: Increasing demand for data analysts, IoT engineers, and AI specialists in port logistics.

       2.2 Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS):

• Awareness & Preparation: While fully autonomous ships are still in development, automation levels are increasing. Students should understand MASS technologies, IMO regulations (Chapters 1, 2, 8, 9), and the operational impacts on crews.
• Opportunities: Develop skills for operating and monitoring automated systems; participate in technology trials and implementations.

       2.3 Cyber Security:

• Importance: Growing connectivity makes ships more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Cyber resilience (Chapters 3, 9) is crucial.
• Essential Skills: Students should gain basic knowledge in cybersecurity and consider developing advanced skills in this area.

       2.4 E-Commerce & Electronic Bills of Lading:

• Trade Efficiency: Electronic bills of lading (Chapter 10) streamline trade processes. Understanding legal frameworks (like MLETR) and digital procedures is essential.
• Opportunities: Mastering digital trade processes in the maritime domain.

3. Key Trends and Opportunities in Decarbonization:

• IMO Net-Zero 2050 Target: Emphasize that this target (Chapters 4, 14) also applies to the Vietnamese fleet.

Alternative Fuels:

• Understanding Options: Discuss green methanol, ammonia, hydrogen, and biofuels (Chapters 4, 5)—their potential, safety concerns, costs, and infrastructure needs.
• Vietnam’s Potential: Explore opportunities to produce biofuels, build green fuel infrastructure, and develop expertise in managing and operating ships with new fuels.

Energy Efficiency & Green Technologies:

• Battery & Electrification: Battery systems (Chapter 6), especially for coastal/inland ships, are promising. Vietnam’s long coastline and river networks are suitable for small vessel electrification.
• Wind Energy: Assess the potential of wind propulsion (Chapter 15) for Vietnam’s shipping routes.
• Carbon Capture (CCS): Stay informed about the development of this technology (Chapter 4).
• Maritime Safety: Highlight new safety requirements for low/zero-emission fuels and technologies (Chapters 4, 5).

4. Development Opportunities for Vietnam’s Maritime Sector and Students:

• High-Quality Human Resources: Strong demand for skilled labor in digital, data analytics, automation, new fuel management, and cybersecurity. Students should focus on acquiring these competencies (Chapters 14, 17).
• Technological Leapfrogging: Vietnam can leap ahead by adopting modern sustainable technologies in shipbuilding, port operations, and fleet management.
• Policy and Regulation: Vietnam should align national policies with international standards (IMO) to attract investment and enhance integration. Students can contribute to this policy development in the future.
• International Collaboration: Engaging in regional/international research, standardization, and capacity-building initiatives (Chapters 4, 5, 13, 17) is critical.
• Maritime Education and Training (MET): MET curricula must be updated (Chapters 14, 17) to produce Global Maritime Professionals (GMPs) ready for the future. Students are the future GMPs.

Niche Markets: Vietnam can focus on strategic segments such as coastal electric vessel fleets, biofuel supply chains, and smart port solutions.

5. Advice for Students:

• Be Proactive: Continuously update your knowledge on new technologies, international regulations, and market trends.
• Develop Skills: Focus on technical (operation and maintenance of new systems) and soft skills (adaptability, problem-solving, teamwork, languages).
• Seize Opportunities: View challenges as opportunities to innovate, grow, and contribute to Vietnam’s maritime industry.
• Build Networks: Connect with peers and professionals both domestically and internationally for learning and collaboration.
• Think Sustainably: Always prioritize safety, security, and environmental protection in all endeavors.

Access the full book here: https://commons.wmu.se/lib_books/12/