Fu Gangfeng, Cosco Shipping president
Ships crossing the world’s oceans could soon sail greener, thanks to a new global research centre aiming to reduce emissions and improve sustainability in maritime operations. The virtual centre, led by COSCO Shipping Group in partnership with the University of Southampton, will focus on low- and zero-carbon technologies, intelligent ship systems, and digital innovations.
The centre will bring together industry and academic expertise to test practical solutions for fleets worldwide. COSCO will provide operational data and fleet networks. At the same time, the University of Southampton will use its expertise in vessel energy modelling, machine learning, hydrodynamics, and autonomous systems to improve efficiency and cut emissions.
Professor Fraser Sturt, Director of the Southampton Marine and Maritime Institute, described the partnership as a chance to work with leading organisations across the sector.
Professor Dominic Hudson, who heads the Centre for Maritime Futures, said global collaboration was essential to tackle the maritime industry’s decarbonisation challenges.
Nick Brown, CEO of LR, emphasised that the centre will turn research into real-world solutions, benefiting both businesses and the environment. A Technical Committee will guide the centre’s work, ensuring innovation continues to align with industry needs. The initiative builds on earlier collaborations with Shanghai Shipping and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, which developed data-driven models for fleet energy transition.
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