CO₂ Emissions in Shipping: Unlocking Value Through Digitalization and Transparent Stakeholder Collaboration

As the maritime industry accelerates towards decarbonization, one truth is becoming clear: the ability to trust and share emissions data will define tomorrow’s leaders.

That idea was at the heart of StormGeo’s recent panel discussion at StormGeo’s APAC Shipping Forum in Singapore.  The session brought together experts from Berge Bulk Maritime, DNV, ClassNK, Bureau Veritas, and StormGeo to explore how collaboration and digitalization are transforming compliance into performance — and how the upcoming IMO Net Zero Framework will reshape the industry landscape. 

From Compliance to Continuous Improvement 

For years, regulatory frameworks such as EU MRV, IMO DCS, and the EU ETS have pushed the shipping industry to focus on compliance. But as several panelists pointed out, the focus is shifting.

“We’ll soon move from what to report to what to improve,” said Dominic Ng, Head of Asia Pacific at DNV Veractiy. This evolution demands data that is not only collected but also trusted. Data that can guide smarter operational decisions, from speed management to investment in new technologies. The consensus among the panelists was clear: compliance may have started the journey, but performance will define its future. 

Data Quality: The Foundation of Decarbonization 

A recurring theme was the cost of poor data. Riccardo Barbiellini, Director of Future Shipping Team at Bureau Veritas highlighted that even minor sensor inaccuracies can have major financial consequences. “Calibrate, validate, and automate, but keep the human check in the loop,” he advised.  

Panelists also noted that moving away from legacy reporting systems towards fully digital, connected platforms will be essential for accurate, real-time verification of emissions data. In an era where ships generate enormous volumes of data, ensuring integrity requires both automation and expert oversight. Technology enables precision, but people maintain accountability. The takeaway: decarbonization relies on reliable data and reliable data depends on collaboration between humans and systems. 

Building Trust Through Partnerships and Standards 

Shipowners like Berge Bulk Maritime emphasized the importance of working with partners who understand both compliance and operations. “Data is the new currency,” said Nelson Sotelo, Vessel Performance Manager at Berge Bulk Maritime. “We look for partners who act as stewards of that asset.” For many, frameworks like Operational Vessel Data (OVD) have become essential, allowing owners, verifiers, and solution providers to work from a single, consistent data model.  

Madeleine Engelhardt, Product Manager Fleet Compliance and Technical Performance at StormGeo reinforced this point: “By combining standardized and integrated data flows through OVD with collaborative alignment on unified interpretation of regulations, we reduce friction and enable scalable cooperation.” Standardization doesn’t just simplify reporting. It builds the trust required to share insights across the value chain. 

Collaboration as a Competitive Edge 

While regulatory uncertainty remains, one message echoed throughout the discussion: collaboration is becoming the new competitive advantage. Digitalization can reduce errors, but collaboration is what turns compliance into performance. As the IMO Net Zero frameworks take shape, the industry is steering decisively toward decarbonization. It is evident that the most successful players will be those who use trusted data not only to meet requirements but to drive smarter operations that lead to efficiency, innovation, and sustainability. 

The Way Forward 

The path ahead is both challenging and full of opportunity. Ship owners must balance compliance, cost, and innovation, but with the right partners and reliable data, they can turn those pressures into progress. As Dominic Ng concluded, “Look at decarbonization not as a cost, but as an opportunity to differentiate your operation.”  

At StormGeo, we believe that opportunity begins with collaboration. Together, we can navigate the next phase of shipping — smarter, safer, and more sustainable. 

Editor's note: Since the panel, the IMO has postponed formal adoption of the Net-Zero Framework by one year. This delay only reinforces the importance of proactive collaboration, data transparency, and digital readiness discussed by the panelists.