(NEWS) WMU Contributes to Decarbonization Discussions at Euromed

October

2021

WMU Contributes to Decarbonization Discussions at Euromed

On 8 October, Dr Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, President of the World Maritime University (WMU), participated in a panel discussion on “The Decarbonisation of the European Maritime Industry: Challenges and Prospects” at the XXIV Euro-Med Convention from Land to Sea, held in Valencia, Spain.

Shipping is the backbone of international trade with more than 80% of cargo by volume and 70% by value, and it is the most energy efficient mode of transportation. President Doumbia-Henry remarked that the maritime industry is likely standing at the start of one of its greatest technological challenges, as it prepares to transition to a zero and low-emission industry through the adoption of technological innovations.

The IMO has already committed the international maritime community to reducing the total annual Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008, and is pursuing efforts towards phasing them out by the end of this century. Dr Doumbia-Henry emphasized that decarbonizing the maritime industry will need to address ships as well as ports and that cooperation is key in tackling worldwide problems such as climate change, particularly in such an international domain as the maritime industry. She referred to the important role of women in the decarbonization of shipping.

President Doumbia-Henry highlighted the work of WMU in advancing research, contributing to education and ensuring that capacities are built worldwide for sustainable energy technologies in the maritime sector. WMU has an important teaching and research role to play with an educational stream on Maritime Energy Management (MEM) that is a direct and effective mechanism for addressing GHG emissions. WMU is strongly committed to UN SDG 13 focused on climate change and works to support the achievement of sustainable and energy-efficient maritime and ocean industries.

Since 2016, WMU has offered an MEM specialization within its Master of Science in Maritime Affairs programme. In 2018, WMU launched a new postgraduate diploma programme in MEM by distance learning. To date, 62 maritime professionals from 31 different developing countries have graduated from the MSc programme in MEM, thereby ensuring the building of expertise particularly for developing countries. To date, 34 out of 62 WMU graduates who have specialized in the MEM are from Africa.

President Doumbia-Henry emphasized that WMU graduates return to their home countries with the knowledge to be able to support their ministries and institutions to understand and to take action to implement the relevant instruments of the IMO. In this way, they are able to participate in the global effort towards zero and low-emissions technologies being deployed in international shipping.

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Maritime Governance: Contextual Factors affecting Implementation of IMO Instruments

My decision to enroll in the doctoral program at WMU was heavily influenced by my prior experience as a Master's student at the institution. Initially introduced to me as a preeminent global institution for maritime education, WMU's stellar reputation was further substantiated by the exceptional quality of education I received during my Master’s studies. This experience became a compelling factor in my determination to return to WMU as a doctoral student. Recognizing the synergies between my research aspirations and the institutional offerings at WMU, I concluded that continuing my educational journey at this esteemed institution was not only beneficial but also aligned perfectly with my academic and professional goals.

My research explored the theoretical foundations of governance, placing a particular emphasis on maritime governance. Going beyond mere theoretical frameworks, the study conducted a comprehensive examination of a crucial aspect within maritime governance—specifically, the implementation of International Maritime Organization (IMO) instruments, exploring the contextual factors that affect the implementation process. Applying the grounded theory methodology, the research aimed to understand these theoretical underpinnings, as well as firmly anchor insights in the practical context of maritime governance; unveiling the intricacies and challenges associated with the effective implementation of IMO instruments in the maritime domain. The selection of this topic was motivated by a personal interest that was cultivated during my Master’s studies in maritime law and policy. Furthermore, it was driven by the recognition of a scarcity of scientific research on this specific topic. This gap in the existing body of knowledge served as a catalyst for my exploration, underscoring the significance of contributing valuable insights to an area of maritime governance that has been relatively underrepresented in scholarly research.

Undoubtedly, a highlight of my educational journey at WMU was the opportunity to forge connections with influential change-makers and thought leaders hailing from every corner of the globe. This invaluable chance to engage with individuals on an international scale has not only enabled me to expand my global network but has also served as a conduit for immersing myself in the rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Through these global interactions, I've gained a profound understanding of different perspectives, traditions, and approaches, contributing significantly to my personal and academic growth. This experience goes beyond mere networking and has also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections within the Caribbean region from which I hail.

Embarking on my professional path, my foremost aim is to establish myself as an authority in the field of maritime governance. I aspire to leave a significant and enduring mark on the global maritime landscape. Beyond the academic sphere, my drive is fuelled by a passionate interest in pursuing diverse opportunities within the maritime domain and the broader educational sector and contributing significantly to positive transformations in the global maritime sector.

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WMU's unwavering commitment to maritime education, coupled with its resolute emphasis on bridging the realms of academia and industry, deeply resonated with me. It became evident that WMU was the perfect crucible for my transformation from a career entrenched in maritime operations to one flourishing within academia. The University's storied tradition of nurturing and producing experts and leaders within the maritime sector further solidified its standing as the ideal choice for my educational pursuits.Furthermore, WMU's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to maritime studies served as an irresistible attraction.

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