The maritime industry is undergoing a monumental transformation, driven by advancements in technology, economics, and operations. Our WMU Summer Academy programme on Maritime Decarbonization prepares you to be a part of the transition to a net-zero greenhouse gas and energy efficient maritime industry.
The 2023 IMO Strategy on Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships aims for net-zero emissions by around 2050, with interim total GHG reductions of by at least 20%, striving for 30%, by 2030, and by at least 70%, striving for 80%, by 2040 . In April 2025 the IMO agreed on the "IMO net-zero framework" to set a global fuel standard and a pricing mechanism for emissions exceeding the target annual GHG fuel intensity. To achieve the ambitious decarbonization goals, organizations and government agencies must prepare for introducing technical innovations, new policies and revised operational procedures into the maritime industry that will define the future of this industry and be reflective of the evolving regulations.
Our programme is grounded in the belief that maritime decarbonization is both an inevitable shift and a tremendous opportunity for the entire industry. Through a comprehensive approach, we will explore the challenges and opportunities maritime decarbonization presents, considering regulatory, social, environmental, technological, and economic dimensions.
Benefiting from WMU's distinctive international environment, our programme fosters interactive discussions and lectures, offering insights into the complexity of decarbonizing shipping while seeking solutions. Led by WMU's esteemed faculty and keynote speaker Dr. Harry T. Conway, Chair of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) of the International Maritime Organization, participants will explore international regulations, technical aspects of ship design and operation, emerging energy-efficient technologies, and economic processes influencing the pathways for decarbonization in the context of maritime supply chains and financing.
Dates of the course: 17-21 August 2026