The search for scalable maritime fuels often centres on ammonia, methanol and hydrogen.

However, one of the most practical options available today may already exist within global waste streams. With estimates suggesting that tens of millions of tonnes of used cooking oil are generated annually worldwide, NYK's year-long B100 trial will test whether this readily available feedstock can support vessel operations while reducing lifecycle emissions.

The results could help determine how far biofuels can contribute to shipping's decarbonisation ambitions using existing engines and infrastructure.

— Arnel Murga

Maritime software platforms are evolving beyond standalone applications as ship managers seek a single source of operational truth. UniSea's acquisition of Kaiko Systems combines AI-powered inspections, compliance management and fleet operations into a connected environment supporting more than 4,000 vessels worldwide.

Digitalisation is reaching deeper into the maritime supply chain as Northern Marine modernises supplier governance and risk management. The initiative aims to improve visibility, strengthen compliance and embed ESG considerations into everyday business decisions.

Cargo planning for steel coils has long relied on specialist expertise and manual calculations. DNV's latest AI-powered tool can now generate optimised loading plans and structural assessments in under five minutes, helping owners maximise cargo intake while maintaining safety margins.

Biofuels remain one of the few decarbonisation options that can be used with existing engines and infrastructure. NYK's year-long trial of 100% biofuel derived from used cooking oil and similar feedstocks aims to answer critical questions around operational performance, fuel stability and long-term adoption.

A corridor linking Brazil with Rotterdam and Antwerp is providing a real-world test of how ports, fuel suppliers and shipowners can work together to reduce emissions. The project has already prevented around 5,000 tonnes of CO₂ while offering insights into the commercial realities of scaling lower-emission shipping.

Wind propulsion is returning to the boardroom conversation as shipowners evaluate future fleet investments. A new 50,000 DWT tanker concept from FINOCEAN and FKAB combines wind power, hull optimisation and alternative fuels, with projected power savings of up to 55% on favourable trade routes.

Hull condition remains one of the most overlooked contributors to fuel consumption and emissions. BW Epic Kosan's experience suggests that combining advanced coatings, robotic cleaning and performance monitoring can deliver measurable savings while supporting long-term decarbonisation objectives.