THE ESSAY TOPIC
As our planet gets warmer, it is becoming increasingly clear that many practices must become more green, considerate, and sustainable. For the maritime industry, this means adopting new fuel types and relying increasingly on data and digitalisation. This transition will not come cheap, so how do we work together to ensure that no one is left behind?
Though the energy transition is crucial, we must still ensure adequate access to innovation and technology for developing countries, which are often hit the hardest by climate change. For these countries, the energy transition could potentially create better employment opportunities, increased gender diversity, and social inclusion.
A BIMCO/ICS Seafarer Workforce report from 2021 predicts that the industry will be missing 26,000 officers in just 3 years time. Held together with the fact that more than half the world’s population is currently below the age of 30, stresses the fact that the industry must make an effort to attract younger generations.
We are asking potential leaders of the future to outline what they think industry leaders and policymakers could do to ensure an inclusive transition in the maritime industry.
Essay question: What does an inclusive transition to a sustainable maritime industry mean to you – and what are your recommendations to industry leaders and policymakers on how this could be achieved for future generations?