Weathernews’ All-in-One Platform Lauded at Key Green Forums
Clients and business partners commend Weathernews’ innovative weather intelligence solutions at major gatherings in Denmark and Greece, highlighting the platform's effectiveness in managing target emissions and supporting the maritime industry's transition towards sustainability.
As the IMO regulations on Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) compliance approach, shipowners and operators worldwide face the challenge of maintaining vessels' Annual Efficiency Ratio (AER) without diminishing asset values. Weathernews' new online platform is designed to collect, analyze, and optimize environmental and vessel performance data, providing a comprehensive solution to enhance safety, performance, and sustainability.
The platform, developed in close collaboration with clients and business partners, was launched and demonstrated at the Green Forums in Athens and Elsinore. It features industry-leading CII data analysis and simulation, integrating Weathernews' proven Navigational Assessment and Routing (NAR) service with advanced Voyage and Fleet Monitoring capabilities, including nautical charts and Tropical Cyclone Strike probability assessments.
"The platform allows operators to monitor their fleet status in real time, with AIS data updates at two-minute intervals, advanced weather alert systems, and global port forecasts up to seven days ahead, covering precipitation and tides," said Niels Christian Kjærgaard, Director EU Business Development at Weathernews in Copenhagen.
This expanded suite includes the new Passage Plan Assessment feature, offering an evaluation of the vessel, the route, and potential threats, enhancing maritime operations efficiency. "The safety features received positive feedback, and we will continue refining all components by listening to customers and adding value wherever possible," noted Elias J Makris, Director EU Business Development based in Athens. The platform is supported by Weathernews' team of meteorologists and expert voyage planners.
As the maritime industry increasingly turns to digital solutions for decarbonization, Weathernews is leveraging big data and machine learning to enhance operational efficiency and support emission reduction strategies. "Collaborative efforts and innovative technologies are key to addressing emissions, using data-driven insights to assist human decision-making," added Kjærgaard.
Weathernews has a history of customer engagement in product and service evaluations, with plans to intensify collaboration. "We view ourselves as long-term partners in our clients' asset management, fostering open communication and shared learning to build trust and drive innovation," said Makris.
The Elsinore and Athens Forums, titled ‘Smarter Operations for a Greener Tomorrow’, addressed operational challenges like future CII rankings and the importance of accurate weather data and routing optimization software for performance enhancement. Discussions also included business sustainability and the need for compliance with ESG requirements among charterers and cargo owners.
Søren Vilhelmsen, Head of Commercial Operations at Navigator Gas, commented on the Elsinore Forum: "It was an excellent event with insightful discussions. Weathernews hosted the forum superbly, showcasing their platform's significant enhancements for future shipping needs."
Gabriel Poritz, Business Partner Sustainability & Decarbonization at Stolt Tankers, added: "The Green Forum offered a deep dive into real issues, unlike the superficial discussions we've seen elsewhere. It was a refreshing and valuable experience."
Key clients like Michell Abdu Canales, Head of Performance at Golden Ocean Group, and Helge Røttingen, Vessel Performance Manager at Saga Welco, also shared insights.
"We aimed to create an open, collaborative environment to address key operational challenges, and the forums exceeded expectations. I am very optimistic about the future," said Kjærgaard, praising his team for their hard work.
"After the Covid-19 hiatus, it was fantastic to meet our Greek clients in person in Athens. Special thanks to Capt. Nikolaos Nikolaou, Operations Manager at Alpha Bulkers Shipmanagement, and Alexandros Zymaris, Senior Performance Engineer at Thenamaris Ships Management, for their contributions to this dynamic event," Makris concluded.
