Training seafarers, tug masters and pilots to operate more efficiently and sustainably will help the maritime industry reduce polluting emissions in ports and along coastlines.

European Tugowners Association secretary general, Anna Maria Darmanin, explained the link between changing crew behaviour and emissions reductions during an interview at the 27th International Tug & Salvage Convention, held in Dubai, in May 2024.

She is well placed to support owners and operators as they face the challenges of a new, greener future; and says a key element of such support comes in the form of training.

On this topic, Ms Darmanin highlights the Green Ports Alliance and a questionnaire introduced by the association. This questionnaire intends to solicit information that will be used to identify training gaps and determine crew awareness on issues such as sustainability and how behaviour can impact emissions.

The goal is to introduce a tailored training programme, directed towards port service professionals, that will help to reduce emissions by a substantial 10%.

ETA plans to report on progress with this initiative and others involving tug masters and marine pilots at Riviera’s TugTechnology 2025 conference.