Oldendorff Carriers and the University of Strathclyde have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a research centre devoted to sustainable shipping. The partnership will involve both parties collaborating on sustainable shipping issues to support international and regional efforts to decarbonise the industry, support the just transition, and further enhance operational safety.

The Oldendorff Research Centre for Sustainable Shipping in Glasgow will focus on the design of highly efficiency ships that incorporate innovative technologies, energy-efficient integrated operations and alternative energy sources. 

Additional areas of research will include: responsible AI-supported data intelligence, digitalisation, and decision support for bio-inspired innovative research for zero-emissions and technologies. The partnership will also focus on improving human performance at sea and advancing skill development, while strategies to meet the net-zero and interim IMO targets will also be a key priority.

Oldendorff Carriers’ Director of Research & Development Dr Torsten Barenthin, said: ‘Frustrated by the slow development of significant decarbonisation technologies, Oldendorff feels compelled to invest in academic research with the aim of moving the dry bulk industry forward. We are pleased to be partnering with the UoS.’

Of the UoS, Barenthin continued: “Their reputation and high global rankings in the fields of naval architecture and ocean engineering speak for itself. Over the past months we have built solid relationships with faculty members, and academics, as well as having the opportunity to visit their impressive facilities in Glasgow.”

The University of Strathclyde’s Executive Dean of Engineering & Associate Principal, Professor Stephen McArthur, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Oldendorff Carriers as the combination of Strathclyde’s research excellence and Oldendorff’s practical experience will undoubtedly bring exciting opportunities for the decarbonisation of shipping.”

Source: Oldendorff Carriers / University of Strathclyde