Green Award Board of Experts convenes for 58th meeting in Rotterdam

Members of the Green Award Board of Experts at the 58th BoE meeting. © Green Award Foundation, 2025.

29 October 2025 – The Green Award Foundation held the 58th meeting of its Board of Experts (BoE) in Rotterdam. Chaired by Capt. David Patraiko, the meeting brought together industry representatives from across the seagoing and inland sectors to review developments, discuss proposed updates, and provide technical guidance supporting the Foundation’s certification programs.

This biannual exchange remains a cornerstone of Green Award’s collaborative approach, ensuring that both the sea and inland programmes continue to evolve in line with new technologies, safety insights, and sustainability ambitions.

Seagoing Shipping: Advancing safety and sustainable operations

During the seagoing session, experts discussed updates to technical requirements and new proposals aimed at reinforcing safety and supporting the sector’s energy transition.

Safety aspects of alternative fuels were discussed, with the BoE considering new draft requirements for the safe handling and use of ammonia, methanol, and liquid hydrogen as marine fuels, each addressing specific operational and training needs associated with these emerging energy carriers.

Topics also included ongoing refinement of navigation-related standards and the integration of innovative technologies within the Green Award framework. The session further addressed matters relating to crew wellbeing, with a focus on mental health and welfare awareness, an increasingly important part of sustainable ship operations.

Inland Shipping: Enhancing compliance and performance

The inland session focused on several proposed amendments intended to strengthen operational safety, environmental compliance, and certification integrity. Discussions touched upon improved monitoring practices, updates to technical requirements for specific onboard systems, and the continued expansion of the inland certification program.

There was also a dialogue about the Platinum Label requirements, focusing on continued improvement in emissions performance and recognition of best-in-class environmental standards within the inland fleet. Experts further reviewed the development of digital tools supporting data collection and transparency across the sector.

Continued collaboration and expertise

As part of the joint session, the BoE also welcomed new member nominations, reinforcing the Board’s broad representation and technical expertise. Their collective insight continues to strengthen Green Award’s technical and strategic foundation.

All proposals and recommendations from the meeting will now be submitted to the Green Award Board for review and potential approval.

The 58th BoE meeting once again underscored the Foundation’s commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange across maritime sectors, driving continuous improvement toward safer and more sustainable shipping.