The Maritime Cyprus 2022 conference reached its conclusion, after opening its last day exploring the topic “Leveraging digital transformation and innovation for a brighter future in shipping.”
More specifically, Anders Hvid, Co-founder, DareDisrupt noted several observations in shipping and energy, where an accelerating level of innovation will see a complete transformation of certain sectors over the next decade.
Commenting on the power of data in shipping, Mr Hvid said:
The green transformation is the biggest challenge we have ever faced, and digitalization is a mighty, powerful tool we can use to solve it
The discussions continued with the panel “Automated and autonomous shipping: Is the pace fast enough?” with moderator Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou, President, WISTA International and CEO, Tototheo Maritime.
The panel agreed that use of automation in shipping is showing much promise, with development accelerating in areas such as artificial intelligence. Participants also discussed the potential of technology but warned that human error was a risk factor that the industry needs to consider.
Furthermore, the discussion covered the value of protecting the handling and collection of data and how sharing data can be a conflict – both how it might help the maritime industry but also help it progress. The panel closed with comments on how the industry needs to prepare for developments in automation, with training noted as critical to success, particularly as maritime technologies and alternative fuels develop.
The highlight of the day focused on the question “Is seafarers’ welfare and rights in jeopardy?” wit Captain Lasota focusing on the non-criminalization of seafarers.
Captain Lasota gave an account of his personal experiences, which involved himself being unjustly prosecuted and jailed for two years in a narcotics case. He called for ongoing discussion around, and development of legislation relating to, seafarer rights.
The panel also outlined what changes could be made to rectify the current seafarer shortage including improved connectivity, investment in programs geared towards increased diversity, equity and inclusivity and encouraging more female involvement in the industry.
The final panel of the day explored the topic of “Challenging the Communication Challenge.” Liana Charalambous Tanos opened the panel by questioning how shipping is presenting itself to the general public. In response to this, Michelle Wiese Bockmann highlighted the abundance of room for improvement in how shipping approaches communications.
Joining the stage for the final panel, Cyprus Shipping Deputy Minister to the President, Vassilios Demetriades, communicated his support for the drive for external communication outside of the industry.
Strong external relations will ensure we are visible, and it will have positive results
he concluded.
