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Maritime Energy Transition: Disruptive Technologies for Global Shipping Decarbonization

Author

Listed:
  • Quazi Sakalayen

    (UBD School of Business and Economics, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei)

  • Jasmine Siu Lee Lam

    (Department of Technology, Management and Economics, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 KGS Lyngby, Denmark)

  • Mohamed Syazwan Ab Talib

    (UBD School of Business and Economics, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei)

  • Wardah Hakimah Haji Sumardi

    (UBD School of Business and Economics, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), Bandar Seri Begawan BE1410, Brunei)

  • Samsul Islam

    (JR Shaw School of Business, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), Edmonton, AB T5G 3H6, Canada)

Abstract

Reducing CO 2 emissions from global shipping remains a critical challenge in the pursuit of sustainable international trade. Though the technical and operational (T/O) measures and alternative fuel (AF) solutions have shown promise, the global maritime sector continues to face strategic and structural hurdles. This thematic narrative review revisits the fundamentals and explores the roles of T/O measures and Alternative fuel options in reducing CO 2 emissions in international shipping, with a focus on the maritime energy transition. The study reveals that maximizing the benefits of T/O measures, alongside establishing a balanced energy transition matrix encompassing clean energy sources, can foster an environment conducive to future sustainability performance and substantial CO 2 emission reductions. More specifically, combining operational efficiency improvements with scalable, future-focused, infrastructure-ready alternative fuels can yield significant emission reductions. The paper also introduces a conceptual model to guide the maritime energy transition, outlining a phased pathway that leverages innovation, policy, and system-level design. These insights contribute to shaping a resilient roadmap for decarbonizing international shipping by enhancing the sector’s sustainability performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Quazi Sakalayen & Jasmine Siu Lee Lam & Mohamed Syazwan Ab Talib & Wardah Hakimah Haji Sumardi & Samsul Islam, 2026. "Maritime Energy Transition: Disruptive Technologies for Global Shipping Decarbonization," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 18(2), pages 1-29, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:18:y:2026:i:2:p:763-:d:1838902
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