Green Award

Executive Director Jan Fransen speaking at the ESG Shipping Awards 2025. © ESG Shipping Awards, 2025

Athens, Greece – May 2025  Earlier this week, our Executive Director, Jan Fransen, served once again as Chair of the Judging Committee for the ESG Shipping Awards, held in Athens.

This marks the third time Mr. Fransen has led the independent judging panel, bringing his experience and dedication to a rigorous evaluation process that upholds the credibility of the awards.

With more than 200 submissions from across the maritime industry, the judging process combined both technical analysis and sector insight. Thirty percent of the evaluation focused on ESG reporting maturity and company profile, while seventy percent assessed the merit, impact, and innovation of the actions submitted.

ESG Shipping Awards ceremony. © ESG Shipping Awards, 2025

“The quality and diversity of submissions this year were truly outstanding,” said Mr. Fransen. “From large multinational fleets to family-run operators, we saw real commitment to measurable ESG action. Not just ambition, but implementation.”

He also noted the depth of the panel’s discussions: “Some entries sparked rich debate, with several actions even shifting categories as we worked to ensure each initiative was evaluated fairly. In the end, it was about recognizing leadership that is not only visible, but valuable.”

Looking at industry-wide trends, Mr. Fransen added:

What stood out was how companies are no longer treating ESG as a compliance exercise, but as a strategic driver. These awards celebrate that shift.

The ESG Shipping Awards showcase forward-thinking ESG practices and highlight leadership in sustainable maritime operations. We congratulate all 2025 award recipients and thank the organizing team for fostering progress and collaboration across the sector.

To learn more, visit the ESG Shipping Awards website.