Gulf Oil Marine says shipping needs ‘Amazon approach’ to cut emissions

Testing new lubricants ahead of IMO’s cap on sulphur in fuels led Gulf Oil Marine into a partnership with marine technology firm Azurtane, and global technology manager Don Gregory sees the potential for technology to make an even bigger impact across the sector

Gulf Oil Marine global technology manager Don Gregory was unequivocal on the potential impact of a digital revolution in shipping: he said he believes business strategies enabled by technology are a means of rapidly achieving lower emissions throughout the maritime sector.

“From the work we have done, it is very clear that if the maritime sector adopted the Amazon approach and tracked all movements and waypoints to achieve a just-in-time arrival and [optimal] vessel utilisation, the industry could cut bunker consumption overnight by 20%,” Mr Gregory said.

With the industry facing increasing pressures to limit emissions, Mr Gregory said efficiencies generated from technology would help to bridge the gap during the next decade, cutting fuel use and emissions while low- and zero-emissions technologies are developed.

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