In Focus
SeaYou: VDR ambassador programme for shipping
In the Ambassador Programme of the German Shipowners’ Association (VDR), young seafarers have their say and present their perspectives, pictures, texts, and videos from everyday maritime life.
read more: SeaYou: VDR ambassador programme for shippingCargo safety at sea
Maritime shipping has been connecting regions, countries and continents for centuries. It is the backbone of global trade. Today, around ninety per cent of globally traded goods are transported by sea – from raw materials such as oil, gas and ores to containerised food, industrial products and consumer goods.
read more: Cargo safety at seaShip recycling – recognising and promoting progress
Over 90 per cent of materials from decommissioned merchant ships can be recycled. Through international agreements such as the Hong Kong Convention, the shipping industry is creating binding standards for safe as well as environmentally and socially responsible recycling.
read more: Ship recycling – recognising and promoting progress“Maritime sovereignty is of central importance to US policy”
Series: Scott Woodard is the US Consul General in Hamburg. In this interview, he defines American interests – not least in relation to China.
read more: “Maritime sovereignty is of central importance to US policy”“Any disruption to sea routes has serious consequences”
A recent study by the ifo Institute highlights the geo-economic significance of vulnerable sea routes for German foreign trade. In this interview, co-author Prof Katharina Erhardt explains key aspects.
read more: “Any disruption to sea routes has serious consequences”Longing for the sea – our summer seafaring programme
The VDR summer seafaring programme lets you experience life at sea first hand by spending several weeks on a ship together with an international team. Try it out now and discover seafaring!
read more: Longing for the sea – our summer seafaring programmeShipping hazardous goods – a safe affair
Hazardous goods covering essential industrial and consumer needs are transported across the oceans on a daily basis. Nearly tent per cent of containers carried on board ships today contain hazardous goods, from consumer goods like paints and varnishes or lighters to items such as celluloid table tennis balls.
read more: Shipping hazardous goods – a safe affair
Navigating sustainability – new VDR guidelines
VDR has developed guidelines to assist its member companies with mandatory sustainability reporting. To raise general awareness of this important topic, VDR’s practical guide is also available to the public.
read more: Navigating sustainability – new VDR guidelinesSecurity on the world’s oceans
There are many sides to safety in the maritime world. “Safety First” means protecting crews, ships, cargo and the environment. What is equally important is security – protection against external threats such as piracy, cyber attacks and armed conflicts.
read more: Security on the world’s oceansKeeping ships out of harm’s way
Adopted in 2004 in response to the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001, the International Ship & Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code) stipulates mandatory security measures for ships and port facilities worldwide.
read more: Keeping ships out of harm’s way
