While the importance of maritime decarbonisation cannot be overstated, it is essential that the size of the task ahead does not overwhelm efforts to do the next right thing. 

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) aims to realise net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from global shipping by around 2050. By the same year, the European Union’s FuelEU Maritime regulation is targeting an 80% cut in the average annual GHG intensity of vessels trading in the EU or European Economic Area. Meeting these ambitious targets will require the widespread adoption of low- and zero-carbon fuels and buy-in from all stakeholders, although which fuels will make up the future energy mix remains to be seen. 
More research is needed to determine the best fit for different vessel types and operating profiles, while crew will also need specific training to handle new fuels safely and effectively. Infrastructure is also currently lacking to support new fuel types. 
Despite these challenges, shipping must not lose sight of the fact that interim goals set by regulators can be achieved using existing solutions that are both cost effective and readily available. 
FuelEU Maritime is targeting a 6% GHG intensity reduction by 2030, for example. According to simulations run by world-leading classification society DNV, operation- al and technical energy-efficiency measures could reduce fuel consumption by as much as 16% by 2030 compared to a business-as-usual scenario.
HEMEXPO – Hellenic Marine Equipment Manufacturers & Exporters – is helping to drive maritime efficiency with a fast-growing offering of energy-saving devices (ESDs) provided by its member companies.
For example, ERMA FIRST’s FLEX series of ESDs – FLEXCAP, FLEXRING, and FLEX-
FIN – boost propulsive efficiency to cut fuel consumption and emissions, yielding energy savings of up to 16% when used in conjunction. Meanwhile, SEABRIGHT’s LED LIGHTS & LED UPGRADE SOLUTIONS are designed to optimize vessel illumination while significantly reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. These advanced lighting solutions enhance visibility and safety across all operational areas of a ship. Their high-efficiency design enables energy savings of up to 70%, while their extended lifespan reduces the need for frequent replacements, minimizing downtime and waste. 
While the collective portfolio of our 30-plus members covers many areas of ship operations, energy efficiency demands particular attention given the evolving regulatory framework surrounding GHG emissions.
Last year, HEMEXPO signed an agreement with DNV for the assessment of ESDs produced by our member companies. Under the terms of the agreement, DNV re- viewed a HEMEXPO makers list to identify ESDs, assessed which regulatory metrics the identified solutions affected, and issued a letter of professional opinion for the HEMEXPO products that fell into the ESD category. 
Aligning closely with HEMEXPO’s endeavours to encourage the marine equipment industry’s transition towards green solutions, the agreement promises to accelerate the acceptance of technologies that can play a significant role in maritime decarbonisation. 
Indeed, until low- and zero-carbon fuels are ready to adopt at scale, ESDs provide ship owners and yards with a simple and affordable means of enhancing energy efficiency, reducing emissions, and facilitating compliance with existing regulations. 
* Vice President, HEMEXPO