ABS launches Global Sustainability Center in Singapore

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has launched a new sustainability facility in Singapore to help maritime transition to a lower emissions industry.

The advanced ABS Global Sustainability Center is the flagship of the company’s sustainability activities worldwide and brings together its projects that focus on the de-carbonisation of shipping.

Led by ABS Global Sustainability director Gurinder Singh, the facility includes a team of professionals with diverse backgrounds and expertise.

ABS chairman, president and CEO Christopher Wiernicki said: “Decarbonising shipping is a challenge that will compel the industry to reach new technology frontiers. At the same time, it is an opportunity to transition to a more sustainable world economy enabled by efficient, low-carbon transportation.

“To facilitate the journey toward decarbonisation targets, ABS established its Global Sustainability Center to coordinate initiatives that advance innovation and technology development focused on safety, practicality and the commercial viability of proposed solutions.”

The new facility studies the viability of alternative fuels and new energy sources in various shipping sectors and analyses de-carbonisation pathways.

The ABS Global Sustainability Center also uses digital technology to simplify transactions, increase operational efficiency in the industry, and validate new technology.

Gurinder Singh said: “Singapore is an ideal location for the centre as we build upon our strong collaboration with leading universities and sustainability centres of excellence.”

ABS partnered with South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries in November to develop cybersecurity standards for new marine vessels. The standards form part of the ABS Cyber Security-Ready Notation designed for marine assets.