Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sustainability in Shipping signed between the IEEE and the IMarEST
The 8th annual Slide2Open Shipping Finance 2025, where the Greek and international maritime communities converge, returned with a significant milestone: the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Sustainability in Shipping between the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST).
This landmark agreement underscores their shared commitment to advancing sustainability in the maritime sector through collaborative initiatives in key areas, such as:
Developing standards for a sustainable shipping industry, including ship and port electrification and offshore infrastructure.
Creating educational materials, books, seminars, and webinars.
Supporting and certifying training activities, such as lifelong learning programs (CPD) and MSc programs.
Organizing events, webinars, workshops, and conferences.
Advising global policymaking organizations, such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Commission, on technical matters.
The MoU was signed by Prof. Kathleen Kramer, 2025 IEEE President and CEO and Professor of Electrical Engineering at the University of San Diego, and Mr Chris Goldsworthy, Chief Executive Officer of the IMarEST, in the presence of distinguished attendees, who co-signed as witnesses, including:
Mr Leonidas Dimitriadis-Eugenides, IMO Ambassador in Greece and President of Eugenides Foundation
Dr Thomas Coughlin, 2025 IEEE Past President and President of Coughlin Associates
Prof. Christopher Hodge, OBE FREng HonFIMarEST, Chief Electrical Engineer at BMT
Prof. Ioannis Prousalidis, Professor of Marine Electrical Engineering at NTUA, Vice-Chair of IEEE-MSCC, Head of Industrial Connection Activity Sustainable Maritime of IEEE, and Chair of the IMarEST Marine Electrical Special Interest Group (MESIG)
Mr Alpesh Shah, Managing Director of IEEE Standards Association
Mr Peter Sheppard, Head of Technical and Policy at IMarEST.
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In her keynote speech, Prof. Kathleen Kramer emphasized the IEEE’s core mission: to promote technological innovation and excellence for the benefit of humanity. She noted, “With over 460,000 members across 190+ countries and 39 distinct technical societies, IEEE has developed 1,144 active standards and is working on more than 1,000 additional standards. The scope, expertise, contribution, and leadership of IEEE are undeniable.”
Mr Chris Goldsworthy highlighted the global importance of shipping, particularly in Greece and Europe, while providing an overview of IMarEST’s 130-year history and its 12,500 members in 120 countries. He remarked, “The immense scale of maritime operations makes the sector critical for sustainability and necessitates innovation, despite its undisputed efficiency. Now is the time to intensify efforts and deliver efficient, sustainable solutions for a future-ready shipping industry. Collaboration and communication are at the heart of establishing new standards for the maritime sector.”
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The MoU reflects a tangible commitment to sustainability, driving the development of standards, innovative solutions, and advancements in shipbuilding, electrifica-tion, and decarbonization. It is a call to action for improving the quality of life for all and creating a legacy for future generations.
This year’s Slide2Open Shipping Finance Conference & Concert continues to offer a 360° approach to shipping, reinforcing its reputation as one of the industry’s most influential events. Hosting prominent figures from shipping, energy, banking, finance, and IT, the event focuses on topics such as geopolitics, maritime finance, ESG, technology, fuels, and human capital.
Source: Slide2Open Shipping Finance 2025
