Decarbonization in Maritime Shipping: Challenges and Opportunities for Seafarers in a Transitioning Industry

Abstract

The maritime sector is experiencing a radical change towards decarbonization, which has been propelled by the global environmental objectives and regulations, including the IMO targets of 2050. This shift poses serious challenges and opportunities on seafarers, which are very important in the realization of successful practices undertaken in the sea in terms of sustainability. The paper will examine the various implications of decarbonization to seafarers using main sectors like training and skill development, employment relations, health and safety issues, and changing regulatory environment. The paper mentions that extensive training should be taken into consideration, and seafarers should be upskilled to work with alternative fuels, energy-efficient systems, and digital technologies. Secondly, the study investigates the new careers in the sector, including renewable energy technicians, data analysts, but the threat of job loss due to automation and digitalization is also taken into consideration. The problems of health and safety, especially the work with volatile alternative fuels and the use of digital tools are also addressed. To address these challenges, the paper presents interventions to help seafarers such as the improvement of professional development programs, sound safety standards, policy and regulatory advocacy, and mental health programs. These aspects allow the maritime sector to enable seafarers to succeed in a carbon-neutral future by making their occupation more in line with global sustainability objectives and the future success of the industry in a decarbonized world.