Sustainable Wind Power for the Maritime Sector

31 July 2025

Amid significant pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increasingly stringent international regulations, and demand for carbon neutrality in the maritime sector, Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS) – which harness wind energy as an auxiliary source of propulsion – can help reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The Port of Rotterdam Authority announced an increase in the visits of vessels equipped with WAPS to the port. 

WAPS encompass various technologies such as Rotor Sails, Wing Sails, Suction Sails and Soft Sails, and Kites. Rotor Sails are cylindrical structures that rotate on their axis and utilize the Magnus effect, which generates a lift force that serves as additional propulsion for the vessel, thereby reducing fuel consumption. As they are relatively compact, it is feasible to retrofit them on existing vessels. Wing Sails have a profile similar to that of aircraft wings. When shipping companies install WAPS, they can obtain immediate financial benefits. Depending on conditions, fuel savings can differ, however, WAPS can help cut fuel consumption by up to 20%, with peak exceeding 25% under optimal conditions. The height of sails can be an issue during port calls. However, according to the Port of Rotterdam Authority, since the sails of WAPS are usually made to be folded, they are not subject to restrictions, and also the port has no intention to introduce these regulations in the future. As the WAPS market is expected to experience significant growth over the next years, WAPS, if combined with alternative fuels and optimization software, can be a key component in sustainable shipping. 

For the original article, please visit https://www.portofrotterdam.com/en/news-and-press-releases/sustainable-wind-power-maritime-sector or scan the QR code below 

“Maritime Security is a Shared Responsibility”: IMO Secretary-General to UN Security Council    

12 August 2025

At the United Nations Security Council high-level open debate on 11 August, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez called for vigilance and deeper cooperation among Member States and international partners to address growing threats to global maritime security. He emphasized that maritime security was a shared responsibility. 

In 2024, nearly 150 piracy and armed robbery incidents were reported to the IMO, and also unlawful attacks in the Red Sea targeted ships in violation of international law and freedom of navigation. As cyber-attacks, drug trafficking, and other activities continue to threaten maritime security, there is an urgent need for strong cybersecurity governance. To address these challenges, the IMO has taken measures such as the introduction of the 2004 International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code). The organization has also promoted capacity development projects to strengthen regional responses. Dominguez also pointed out that partnerships with other UN organizations, international organizations, regional bodies, and donor Member States are the key to addressing these issues. 

For the original article, please visit https://www.imo.org/en/mediacentre/pages/whatsnew-2308.aspx or scan the QR code below