Oldendorff forms sustainability centre with Scottish university

Germany’s Oldendorff Carriers, one of the world’s leading bulk shipping companies, has expressed its concerns over the slow pace of green innovation in the maritime sector. In response, the company has decided to take a proactive step by collaborating with the University of Strathclyde (UoS) in Glasgow to establish a research center focused on maritime sustainability. The new center aims to address key challenges in designing more efficient and environmentally friendly ships.

The partnership will focus on developing cutting-edge technologies, including energy-efficient ship designs, integrated smart operations, and the use of alternative energy sources. These innovations are expected to drive progress toward achieving zero-emission shipping. In addition, the research will explore AI-supported data intelligence and digitalization to enhance decision-making and operations, as well as bio-inspired solutions for sustainable maritime technology.

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Another core area of collaboration will be improving human performance at sea and advancing maritime skills. The initiative will also align with strategies to meet the International Maritime Organization’s net-zero targets, with Oldendorff Carriers emphasizing the importance of speeding up the industry’s transition toward decarbonization. Dr. Torsten Barenthin, Oldendorff’s director of research and development, highlighted the importance of this partnership, citing the university’s strong reputation in naval architecture and ocean engineering.