Navigating Uncertainty: Shipowners Grapple With Decarbonization Challenges

The shipping industry stands at a crossroads, faced with an “uncertainty dilemma” as it seeks to navigate the complexities of the decarbonization challenge. This dilemma and challenge is underscored by a qualitative survey from Houlder, a London-based design and engineering consultancy. Jonathan Strachan, Houlder’s Chief Technical Officer, shares findings of his discussions with shipowners, which highlight the difficult decisions they face amid tightening environmental regulations and shifting global policies.

A spotlight on uncertainty

The survey, which engaged shipowners across sectors including container, tanker, bulk, cruise, and ferry, reveals that uncertainty is a significant obstacle to the industry’s energy transition. With regulations evolving rapidly and often lacking clarity, shipowners find themselves torn between taking decisive action and waiting for more concrete guidance….