Oldendorff Carriers wants to speed up the development of viable decarbonisation technologies by founding a new research centre for sustainable shipping in Scotland.
The German owner-operator has established the new hub at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, which is known for its long-standing expertise in naval architecture and engineering.
Oldendorff said it will work with the university to develop technologies and strategies to decarbonise the industry, support a “just” transition for workers and enhance operational safety.
Dr Torsten Barenthin, Oldendorff’s director of research and development, 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.”
A memorandum of understanding has been signed by Barenthin and shipping safety expert Professor Osman Turan, director of the university’s Maritime Human Factors Centre.
This will lay the foundation for the Oldendorff Research Centre for Sustainable Shipping at the university.
Collaborative research will look at the design of highly energy-efficient ships with innovative technologies, how operations can be made more efficient and how alternative energy sources may be used.
Other areas of interest will include “responsible” AI-supported data intelligence, digitalisation and decision support.
It will also comprise what Oldendorff called “bio-inspired” innovative research for zero-emission ships and technologies.
“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,” Barenthin said.
Professor Stephen McArthur, the University of Strathclyde’s executive dean of engineering and associate principal, said “the combination of Strathclyde’s research excellence and Oldendorff’s practical experience will undoubtedly bring exciting opportunities for the decarbonisation of shipping”.
At the MoU signing ceremony, the University of Strathclyde presented Oldendorff with a traditional Scottish quaich — a special kind of shallow two-handled drinking cup or bowl.
This is not the first time the German shipping company has collaborated with a university.
In 2019, Oldendorff signed a research agreement with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Center for Bits and Atoms to investigate “disruptive improvements” in ship design and propulsion to decarbonise in line with International Maritime Organization targets.
