Sailing Towards Sustainability: How Seafarers Embrace New Work Cultures for Energy Efficient Ship Operations in Maritime Industry

It is imperative to take proactive measures in light of the escalating concerns about greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of international shipping. The GHG study conducted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) indicates that the sector accounted for 2.2% and 2.89 % of emissions in 2012 and 2018, respectively. As a result, IMO has endorsed strategies to reduce ship-induced emissions to 50% by 2050 and net zero emissions by 2100. For reducing carbon emissions, regulations such as the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) were implemented a decade ago. We collected data from 104 seafarers in 24 countries using purposive sampling, exploring how the energy-efficient operation of ships transforms their work cultures onboard ships. The majority of seafarers in our study agreed that energy-efficient ship operation has changed seafarers' working cultures over the last decade. Seafarers have adopted a variety of energy efficiency (EE) practices, including meticulous record-keeping of fuel consumption and adherence to Planned Maintenance Systems. As well as preparing for Port State Control (PSC) inspections, they follow energy-saving measures prescribed by the SEEMP. In addition to engine maintenance, energy-saving practices, accurate reporting and recording of EE-related data, and efficient power usage, they provide just-in-time arrival, crew training, energy-efficient lighting, environmental awareness, and slow steaming to minimize fuel consumption. The majority of seafarers implemented SEEMP successfully and met the company's objectives, but they did not receive any form of recognition or financial incentives. Although SEEMP can help shipping companies gain financial benefits and preserve the environment, seafarers do not receive tangible rewards or appreciation for implementing it. Only one-fourth of seafarers were rewarded with incentives, bonuses, formal recognition, or trophies. This study holds significant implications for policymakers, offering insight into seafarers' adaptation to energy-efficient ship operations and advocating for integrating Industry 4.0 technologies for EE regulations compliance by reducing seafarers' workloads and improving data accuracy.