Focal topics
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 shipping
A large bulker is loaded with bulk goods in the harbour. © valdisskudre/AdobeStockCargo 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 sea
Their final journey takes many ships to the recycling yards on the coasts of Southeast Asia, like here in Alang. © Google EarthShip 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
Scott Woodard – new Consul General of the USA in Hamburg © US-amerikanisches Generalkonsulat Hamburg“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”
Expert. Prof Dr Katharina Erhardt is an economist at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf. She specialises in trade and competition policy. © ifo-Institut“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”
© Ferdinand LöbelLonging 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 programme
A tanker on the North Sea in calm seas. © Alex Stemmer/Stock.adobe.comShipping 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 guidelines
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More InformationUpdates
© Pawinee – stock.adobe.comread more: German Merchant Shipping: Backbone of Economy and Security in Turbulent TimesAnnual press conference of the German Shipowners’ Association
© European Union, 2024read more: VDR Congratulates European Commission President von der Leyen on Re-election and Calls for Robust Shipping Policies in EuropeEurope Must Remain a Competitive Maritime Hub
© IMOread more: Positive trend: Share of women in German shipping industry increasesThe proportion of women on board has increased by 1.3 percent over the past two years.
© moofushi – stock.adobe.comread more: Shipping keeps a clear course in turbulent timesMerchant fleet remains stable / Training figures rise significantly / Efforts to protect the climate are being intensified
Shipping in Figures
of German ships sail under an EU flag
new entrants to the German maritime shipping industry in 2024.
ships comprise the German merchant fleet
Areas of activity
From skilled labour to decarbonisation and digital infrastructure, the shipping industry operates in a dynamic environment full of major challenges and opportunities. Our focal topics combine comprehensive knowledge, offering in-depth information and providing a well-structured overview of developments shaping the industry.
Environment and climate protection
Germany as a shipping hub
Careers in seafaring
Statement
#safety
Behind every ship there are people. Our seafarers keep supplies moving. They deserve protection, respect and the certainty that they will not become targets of geopolitical conflicts.
Dr. Martin Kröger – Chief Executive Officer VDR
