Effective Training of Seafarers on Energy Efficient Operations of Ships in the Maritime Industry

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About 90% of the world's economy depends on the maritime industry. The Fourth Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Study, 2020 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) reported that 2.89% of total global anthropogenic CO2 emissions had been emitted by international shipping. Though shipping transport is the most energy-efficient transport compared with other forms of transport, its massive effect on the environment must be mitigated. IMO's initial strategy is to set carbon intensity goals of at least a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions per transport work by 2030, and a 70% reduction by 2050 must be met. To reach the Paris Agreement's targets, the IMO's Initial GHG Strategy and actions urge the deployment of energy-saving measures on commercial ships. Many small companies struggle to comply with MARPOL Annex VI regulations for existing old ships. Even though ship propulsion systems with new technology and low-carbon fuels are costly, many low-cost operational measures improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Many shipping companies worldwide have reported substantial financial and environmental benefits from fuel savings by embracing energy-efficient innovative design and operating measures. But there is not enough information on which training activities are more effective for seafarers to implement operational energy efficiency measures on board ships. This study has shown onboard training activities such as computer and simulator-based training; onboard training by the technical manager or master and ship crews; training by the technical manager during the pre-joining briefing; and special training by the project teams/retrofits vendors onboard ships are the most effective training programs for seafarers for energy efficient operation of ships. Shipping companies are making many efforts to train their seafarers, but not all are effective. Seafarers need more effective training programs and corporate motivations to increase their awareness and willingness to contribute more to pollution-free green shipping.