Oldendorff Carriers and University of Strathclyde partner to drive shipping sustainability with new research center

Seeking to advance greener shipping practices, Germany-based dry bulk carrier owner and operator Oldendorff Carriers and the University of Strathclyde have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to create a dedicated research center in Glasgow, Scotland, to support the maritime industry’s decarbonization goals.

The MoU was signed by Osman Turan, Director Maritime Human Factors Centre Department of Naval Architecture, Ocean & Marine Engineering (UoS), and Torsten Barenthin, Director, Research & Development Global Engagement & Sustainability at Oldendorff Carriers.

According to Oldendorff Carriers, efforts to establish the Oldendorff Research Centre for Sustainable Shipping are well underway, intending to address several critical areas in maritime innovation.

The agreement is set on establishing an ongoing partnership to support international and regional decarbonization endeavors, further a just energy transition, and improve operational safety in the shipping industry.

To start with, the center will reportedly focus on the design of ‘highly efficient’ ships that rely on novel, smart, energy-efficient integrated operations and alternative energy sources to improve performance whilst remaining sustainable.

Another key area is said to be the development of ‘responsible’ AI-backed data intelligence and decision-support systems to improve operational efficiency. In addition to that, the center would support digitalization and bio-inspired discoveries, striving toward the creation of zero-emission tools and systems for the shipping industry.

“Frustrated by the slow development of significant decarbonization technologies, Oldendorff feels compelled to invest in academic research with the aim of moving the dry bulk industry forward,” Barenthin said.

“We are pleased to be partnering with the UoS. Their reputation and high global rankings in the fields of naval architecture and ocean engineering speak for itself. Over the past months, we have built solid relationships with faculty members, and academics, as well as having the opportunity to visit their impressive facilities in Glasgow.”

The center’s efforts, however, would not stop there. As per a statement from Oldendorff Carriers, the center would place significant emphasis on improving maritime professionals’ performance at sea and on their skill development. Furthermore, it would prioritize meeting the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) net-zero and interim targets.

“We are delighted to be partnering with Oldendorff Carriers as the combination of Strathclyde’s research excellence and Oldendorff’s practical experience will undoubtedly bring exciting opportunities for the decarbonization of shipping,” Stephen McArthur, the University of Strathclyde’s Executive Dean of Engineering & Associate Principal, highlighted.

In terms of skill development and personal training, Oldendorff Carriers has already made some headway in the field. To remind, in 2023, the company joined forces with Maritime Training (MTR). MTR was tasked with providing an online training package within a multi-year deal, allowing the Oldendorff Carriers’ crew working on around 90 bulk carriers to enhance their skills and knowledge.

On the other hand, in 2021, the University of Strathclyde rolled out a foundation-level course together with the National Subsea Research Initiative (NSRI) and Subsea UK. The course was designed to offer a balance of applied engineering and business, helping technical and business professionals develop their knowledge in offshore renewables.