UECC’s Auto Advance Wins Award With Bremenports For Most Eco-Friendly Ship
[By: United European Car Carriers]
United European Car Carriers (UECC) has secured for the fourth time Bremenports’ Green Focus Award for the most eco-friendly ship, with its multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid PCTC Auto Advance gaining the prestigious prize for the second year running with an even higher green score.
“UECC has taken a leading role in implementing innovative technological solutions on its newbuilds and these pioneering investments are now paying off in the form of enhanced environmental performance and reduced exposure to new green regulations,” said UECC’s Head of Newbuilding Jan Thore Foss.
“This award further vindicates these investments and provides an additional incentive to continue upgrading our fleet with alternative fuel technologies to accelerate progress towards our goal of net zero emissions by 2040.”
‘Exceptionally strong score’
He was speaking after the awards ceremony at Bremenports’ recent Envoconnect ports sustainability conference at which Foss was handed the trophy for the Cleanest Ship calling at the German ports of Bremen and Bremerhaven in 2024 by Bremen State Councillor Kai Stührenberg. “That is an exceptionally strong score,” Stührenberg emphasised in presenting the award before a packed audience at the high-profile event staged in Bremerhaven.
He was referring to the Environmental Ship Index (ESI) rating of 82.77 recorded by the Auto Advance with calls at Bremerhaven last year, which exceeded its previous winning score of 80.1 logged in 2023. ESI is a global benchmark of ship performance in terms of carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxide (NOx) and sulphur oxide (SOx) emissions, giving a score of between zero and 100 to indicate the level of performance exceeding IMO requirements.
Energy-saving technologies
The 2021-built Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) Auto Advance is one of three UECC sister ships – along with Auto Achieve and Auto Aspire – that are equipped with multi-fuel LNG engines allowing the use of both LNG and low-carbon liquefied biomethane (LBM), as well as a battery hybrid solution for energy efficiency.
The first such LNG battery hybrid PCTCs to be delivered, these vessels have an advanced energy management system to control production and consumption of power onboard, optimising operations at sea and manoeuvring in port. This regulates the vessels’ energy storage system – charged by a permanent magnet, directly driven shaft generator or dual-fuel generators – to ensure minimal emissions when using the bow thruster for harbour manoeuvring.
Foss pointed out the use of LBM, or bioLNG, under UECC’s Sail for Change environmental initiative, supported by leading European vehicle manufacturers, allows carbon-neutral transportation, while turbocharging UECC’s efforts to reach its goal of a 45% reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 - above the IMO target of 40%.
Accelerating alternative fuel adoption
UECC has made rapid strides in adoption of alternative fuels such as biofuels, LNG and bioLNG, which can contribute as much as 70% of emissions reductions, while also rolling out a range of energy-saving solutions that can deliver around 20%. The remaining 10% of emissions cuts can be derived from port electrification and shore power. In parallel, the company is advancing
digitalization initiatives to optimize vessel performance and further support decarbonization.
The company’s CEO Glenn Edvardsen said the environmental profile of its 16-vessel fleet will be further enhanced with the scheduled delivery in 2028 of two similar multi-fuel LNG battery hybrid newbuilds that will strengthen its position as the leading provider of sustainable short sea ro-ro transportation in Europe.
Commenting on the latest Green Focus award, Edvardsen said: “We are delighted to again receive this coveted accolade that demonstrates our commitment to sustainability and our ability to progressively reduce the carbon footprint of our fleet through the use of alternative fuels, as well as other energy-saving measures, to optimise environmental performance for the benefit of our customers under the new green regime.”
The products and services herein described in this press release are not endorsed by The Maritime Executive.
Mustang Survival Expands Innovation Team & Lab, Using AI to Advance Safety
[By: Mustang Survival]
Mustang Survival, part of Wing Group, is expanding its research and development capabilities through a newly formed R&D and Advanced Concepts team with investments in state-of-the-art testing, AI-driven analytics, and global collaborations. Built on decades of problem-solving in the harshest conditions, the company is accelerating the entire cycle — from early-stage research and user engagement, through identifying needs and defining problems, to concept development and commercialization — reinforcing its role as a pioneer in marine safety innovation.
From military operations and public-safety agencies to industrial sectors and recreational communities such as sailing, paddling, and fishing—Mustang Survival’s heritage includes category defining solutions like the original Floater® Coat, the RATIS™ system and the award-winning Atlas Life Jacket and Elite PFD.
As part of this effort, the company has expanded their on-site laboratory to simulate extreme environments more effectively, enhancing fire-resistance and cold-immersion testing—accelerating learning cycles from concept to commercialization within the Waterlife Studio.
“A big unknown piece is how materials behave at different temperatures. Being able to understand these shifts allows us to best address solutions around mobility, insulation, and inflation,” said Jill Davidson, Director R&D and Advanced Concepts, Mustang Survival.
Additionally, as part of Wing Group’s broader initiative, the team is applying AI and advanced analytics to accelerate insights from testing and improve material evaluation—supporting faster iteration and more reliable outcomes across programs.
To deepen its research pipeline, Mustang Survival has expanded collaborations with universities across Canada and strengthened relationships with third-party laboratories locally and globally. The team has also secured government funding to advance research and intellectual property development, creating further opportunities for patents.
“By increasing our commitment to R&D and Advanced Concepts, we are dedicated to a long-term, sustainable solution to the problems that our core users face, ensuring Mustang Survival stays on the leading edge of defining innovation within our market and categories,” said Kenny Ballard, President, Mustang Survival.
By investing in people, processes, and partnerships—and by testing directly in real-world conditions—Mustang Survival is extending their solutions-driven heritage while building a stronger foundation for future advancements in marine safety.
The products and services herein described in this press release are not endorsed by The Maritime Executive.
Retailers Turn to AI for Precision Forecasting Amid Supply Chain Challenges
In a rapidly evolving retail environment, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a critical tool for executives seeking to navigate shifting consumer behaviors and increasingly complex supply chains. As traditional forecasting models falter in the face of new market realities, industry leaders are embracing AI-driven predictive analytics to gain a competitive edge.
The use of AI to optimize supply chains is a top focus of the upcoming LINK 2026: The Retail Supply Chain Conference, a gathering of the nation’s top retailers and solution providers. The conference will delve deeply into several AI-related topics, including how top retailers are reworking the approach to demand planning during this tumultuous time for trade.
For decades, retailers relied on forecasting methods rooted in historical averages and static assumptions. These models, while useful in stable conditions, have proven inadequate as consumer preferences change and external disruptions, such as global pandemics, extreme weather events, and geopolitical tensions, become more frequent. The limitations of shipment-based and manual forecasting have prompted a strategic pivot toward AI-powered solutions.
AI-driven forecasting systems leverage vast amounts of internal and external data, including sales trends, seasonal fluctuations, promotional calendars, weather forecasts, economic indicators, and even social media sentiment. Unlike traditional models, these systems continuously learn and adapt, refining their predictions as new information becomes available. The result is a level of precision that allows retailers to optimize inventory, reduce waste, and improve operational efficiency at both the store and distribution center levels.
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Empowering Executives with Granular Insights
For retail executives, the adoption of AI is more than a technological upgrade, it is a strategic imperative. By moving beyond shipment-based models, leaders gain granular visibility into demand fluctuations across regions and channels. This enables smarter inventory deployment and replenishment decisions, minimizing costly stockouts and overstocks while enhancing customer satisfaction.
AI also helps retailers identify emerging trends early, allowing them to respond proactively rather than reactively. For example, machine learning algorithms can detect subtle shifts in consumer preferences or anticipate the impact of upcoming events, such as holidays or major sporting competitions, on product demand. This foresight empowers executives to adjust inventory levels and marketing strategies in real time.
Navigating Supply Chain Disruptions with Scenario Planning
One of the most significant advantages of AI in retail forecasting is its ability to simulate multiple scenarios. In an era marked by near-constant supply chain disruptions, machine learning models can help executives plan for a range of contingencies. Whether adjusting inventory ahead of a major event or reallocating resources during a supply chain hiccup, AI provides the agility retailers need to thrive amid uncertainty.
“AI gives us the ability to plan for the unexpected,” said a supply chain executive at a leading national retailer. “We can model different scenarios and make data-informed decisions with greater confidence, which is invaluable in today’s environment.”
Supporting Sustainability and Strategic Growth
The benefits of precision forecasting extend beyond the bottom line. By reducing excess inventory and waste, AI supports retailers’ sustainability goals. It also frees up teams from manual forecasting tasks, allowing them to focus on strategic initiatives that drive growth and innovation.
As AI and machine learning become “table stakes” in retail forecasting, companies are exploring next-level agentic AI applications to further increase responsiveness and flexibility. These advanced systems can autonomously adjust forecasts and inventory plans, responding instantly to new data and market signals.
Industry Spotlight: LINK 2026 Conference
The transformation underway in retail forecasting will be a central topic at the upcoming LINK 2026 conference, hosted by the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA). The event will feature peer-led Tabletalk discussions and retailer-led breakout sessions, including a presentation on how Dollar General implemented its own AI-powered forecasting system to enhance operational performance. Industry experts and executives will share best practices and insights on harnessing AI to deliver the right product, at the right place, at the right time, every time.
Conclusion
AI-driven forecasting is transforming retail from a reactive to a predictive industry. For executives committed to leading with data, the opportunity is clear: harness AI to make smarter decisions, optimize operations, and deliver superior customer experiences in an increasingly complex world.
This article is sponsored by RILA.
The opinions expressed herein are the author's and not necessarily those of The Maritime Executive.
IHMA and Port of Rotterdam Announce 2026 Congress
[By: International Harbour Masters Association]
The International Harbour Masters Association (IHMA) and the Port of Rotterdam Authority are pleased to announce the 15th International Harbour Masters Association Congress, to be held from 09–12 June 2026 at Theater Zuidplein in Rotterdam.
The theme of the IHMA Congress 2026 is Connecting Horizons – Building Future Resilient Ports Together, reflecting a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainability across the global maritime sector.
The IHMA Congress is a biennial event offering a vital forum for IHMA members, industry stakeholders, innovators, and suppliers from across the ports sector. The Congress enables attendees to connect, share insights, and explore the latest advancements in technology and best practices.
What’s On The Agenda?
The event will open at 09:00 on Tuesday, 09 June 2026, with a formal Opening Ceremony, followed by plenary sessions and panel discussions, keynote addresses, workshops and games. Over three days, the Congress will explore the following core themes:
- Emerging Technologies
- Sustainable Together
- Resilient Ports
On the final day, Friday, 12 June, participants will have the opportunity to join an exclusive Port Tour, inside the biggest port in Europe, organised by the Port of Rotterdam Authority, offering a unique, behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s largest ports.
Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony
The Congress Gala dinner takes place in the heart of Rotterdam on the evening of Thursday, 11 June and will include the announcement of the IHMA award winners.
Launched in 2018, the IHMA awards are held to recognise and celebrate the contributions Harbour Masters make to ensuring safe, secure and efficient ports around the world.
The awards will be judged in three categories:
- Safe, Efficient and Secure Port
- Outstanding Individual Achievement in the Profession of Harbour Master
- Port Operations Photograph of the Year
Nominations are now open. For more information, please contact secretary.ihma@harbourmaster.
What Our Leaders Say
IHMA Congress Chair Gary Wilson: “We’re very much looking forward to the next IHMA Congress in Rotterdam. The theme, Connecting Horizons – Building Future Resilient Ports Together, promises to spark essential discussions. Coming together to share our recent experiences is always a privilege.”
Harbour Master, Port of Rotterdam Authority - René de Vries: “We look forward to welcoming IHMA members to Rotterdam next year. It will be an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss resilience and new technologies in our ports. We are honoured to host this event in Rotterdam.”
IHMA President Paul O’Regan: “From the port to the city, Rotterdam has it all. Experiences we can all learn from. I’m truly excited about reconnecting with colleagues and delivering a superb programme that will empower us all to build more resilient ports.”
Registration Now Open
Registration is open to all members of the maritime community.
For more information and to register, visit: https://ihmacongress2026.
Coming Next
- Call for Papers – September 2025
IHMA will invite professionals to submit abstracts for proposed papers in their area of expertise. This is a valuable opportunity to contribute forward-thinking ideas and practical solutions for building more resilient ports. - Innovation Hub & Student Showcase – November 2025
Aimed at highlighting future talent and voices of the next generation, we will be inviting start-ups, scale-ups and students to present their boldest ideas for the future of sustainable ports. More on this to come!
The products and services herein described in this press release are not endorsed by The Maritime Executive.
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