Η στρατηγική των ναυτιλιακών επιχειρήσεων προς την βιωσιμότητα : μελέτη περίπτωσης Maersk Line
The strategy of shipping companies towards sustainability : a case study of Maersk Line
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Keywords
Ναυτιλία ; Στρατηγική ; Βιωσιμότητα ; Πράσινη ναυτιλία ; Πράσινες ναυτιλιακές στρατηγικές ; Εναλλακτικά καύσιμα ; Maersk LineAbstract
This thesis is part of my Master's program in Economic and Business Strategy at the University of Piraeus. Sustainability has become a hot topic for businesses, and it’s easy to see why. While it’s often associated with protecting the environment, the concept really covers a broader spectrum, focusing on three main pillars: society, economy, and the environment. Nowadays, if a business wants to succeed and keep growing, embracing sustainable development is essential. By adopting sustainable practices, companies not only meet the modern demands of society and the environment but also build a competitive edge in their industry.With sustainability in mind, businesses have been making investments, developing new technologies and innovations, and creating fresh perspectives and institutions. In our fast-paced world and with the pressure of intense production, shipping companies have realized they need to adapt their strategies to meet the growing demand for sustainable development.
Considering that over 70% of our planet is covered in water, the shipping industry plays a crucial role in global trade, moving about 90% of all goods. Specifically, container shipping accounts for around 1,200 million tons of cargo worth approximately $7 trillion. However, this sector consumes over 330 million tons of oil products every year just to transport these goods. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), shipping is responsible for roughly 3% of the world's annual greenhouse gas emissions. As the demand for shipping continues to rise, so does fuel consumption, which leads to increased emissions of harmful pollutants.It’s clear that developing sustainable practices has become a priority in the shipping sector. Innovative projects and strategies are being implemented to focus on sustainability across those three main pillars, aiming for integration into the shipping industry of the future. We’re witnessing a significant transformation, with the industry moving away from fossil fuels and setting a long-term goal of achieving zero emissions for harmful gases and substances. Today, major shipping companies are on a mission toward "green shipping," introducing efficient technologies related to alternative fuels and reducing harmful emissions.
Maersk Lines stands out as a prime example of this transformation. As one of the top shipping companies in the world, it illustrates how a traditional shipping firm can evolve toward sustainable development. Maersk’s approach to sustainability focuses on various aspects, showcasing its commitment to environmental, social, and economic responsibilities. By investing in and innovating sustainable practices, Maersk is shaping a business model where shipping isn’t just about transporting goods but also about embedding sustainability into the very heart of its operations.
In this thesis, I explore the significance of sustainability and delve into how businesses can successfully navigate this "green" transformation for the shipping industry of the future.