CSM Dubai: Sailing Towards Maritime Sustainability in The Middle East

Columbia Shipmanagement (CSM),  part of the Columbia Group, has launched an ambitious journey with the opening of its new office in Dubai. In an interview with Robban Assafina, Xanthos Kyriacou, Managing Director of CSM Dubai, underscores the company's commitment to leveraging advanced technologies and innovative solutions to achieve sustainability, efficiency, and operational excellence in the maritime industry in the UAE and the world.

-What are the primary challenges ship managers are facing in the maritime industry today?

Conflicts and geopolitical tensions influence the entire shipping ecosystem and prevent free flow of trade, further increasing risks for vessels and crews who move near conflict regions. The shipping business is also being contested by the green transition and decarbonisation. That’s what makes it necessary to adopt new technologies and source alternative fuels as the industry works towards conforming to international environmental standards. Then there is the increase in cybersecurity threats that requires mitigation, in order for data and operational systems to be able to deploy safely and efficiently. These multifaceted challenges underscore the urgency for agile risk management and proactive leadership to ensure that the industry continues to thrive in its role in the global economy.

- How is Columbia using technology to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions?

Digitalization is a key element of our strategy, and our commitment to innovation is evident through various initiatives such as the trial of Starlink on a number of our managed vessels, our investment in Hologram technology and eLearning, as well as our partnerships with companies such as OneLearn Global, OneLink and SmartSea.

Our collaboration with SmartSea has revolutionized our digital approach. SmartSea, has been set up by SITA with the Columbia Group as the anchor client, to bring globally trusted transport technology and innovation to the maritime sector. Moreover, our partner OneLink and its EmissionLink service can provide comprehensive performance optimization, including real-time CII rating tracking, carbon emission control, predictive maintenance, and emission scheme management services, particularly for the EU ETS. By utilizing the latest digital systems and expertise, it offers clarity in the often-complex area of emissions management. 

-How is Columbia Group dealing with the challenges of the industry’s environmental regulations? IMO DCS, CII and ETS MRV/FuelEU?

At Columbia, we are committed to a better and greener future, and we support the IMO's vision by engaging in decarbonization projects and exploring the potential of alternative fuels. We align with EU requirements to serve our partners in connection to the EU ETS, which requires monitoring, reporting and verifying the GHG emissions on an annual basis under the EU MRV regulation. Columbia has also joined the NH3CRAFT project, looking to develop technology for onboard ammonia storage as a marine fuel and is involved in a European Union tender to develop liquid hydrogen storage systems for shipping at scale. Additionally, we are part of the BlueBARGE project, which provides offshore electrical power supply to moored vessels. Further demonstrating our commitment, Columbia is overseeing the construction of Super B-Class vessels, which are not only dual-fuel and methanol-ready but also meet high automation and emission standards, consistent with IMO regulations.

-What is Columbia Group’s strategy to further enhance sustainability?

At Columbia Group, sustainability is a core value and an aspect of our business strategy. Our sustainability initiatives are aligned with several of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. We blend innovation, regulatory compliance, and ethical practices to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth. Our ‘icare’ philosophy highlights our commitment to being agents of change. Technological advancements also play a crucial role in increasing efficiency and security while adopting eco-friendly solutions to reduce costs and carbon emissions. Digitalisationalso enhances our supply chain transparency, furthering our sustainability efforts. 

 -How is Columbia future proofing its services to present an integrated digital platform to its clients?

Focused on quality and efficiency, we have transformed from a pure ship management company into an integrated maritime, logistics, leisure and energy platform. This evolution led to the formation of the Columbia Group by enhancing our capabilities and allowing us to offer our clients 24/7 turnkey solutions tailored to their needs. We have broadened our services, partnerships, and collaborations to ensure that we are well prepared to meet future demands, and we have engaged with many key partners on alternative fuels and have re-evaluated total asset management from a fresh perspective. Our synergy with stakeholders, commitment to transparency, and dedication to cost competitiveness highlight our dedication to economies of scale for genuine partnership with all stakeholders

-How is Columbia Group evaluating the feasibility of various alternative fuels for its fleet?

We assess the viability of alternative fuels for our fleet through an extensive analysis that evaluates engine compatibility, retrofitting requirements, and the broad availability of these fuels. Columbia considers the necessary infrastructure, terminal facilities and vessel modifications, as well as the associated capital and operational expenditures (CAPEX and OPEX). A key component of our evaluation is the environmental impact, particularly emissions reductions, we are also a factor in crew training, competence, and safety protocols to ensure smooth operations. Our comprehensive risk analysis addresses technical, operational, and supply chain challenges, enabling us to make informed, sustainable fuel decisions.

-What specific sustainability targets have Columbia set for the next ten years?

We are gradually embedding ESG-related risks into our risk management framework and business strategy to build on our resilience. Through this process, we not only identify negative impacts and risks but also our positive footprint on the environment and wider society. The EU Taxonomy and the CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) provide clear guidance on how we should be approaching a number of sustainability issues. And the ESRS (European Sustainability Reporting Standars) will accelerate this progress, so we look forward to embedding these new practices into our business model and strategy. Moving towards zero emissions, we aim to accelerate the use of decarbonization solutions to make our operations greener and more sustainable. For us at Columbia, sustainability is not a new way of doing things. Responsible and ethical business practices have always been embedded in our Core Values but as the field of ESG rapidly develops, we develop with it.

-What effects have recent IMO regulations had on ship managers and their operations?

Compliance with stringent emissions standards, such as the CII and inclusion in the EU ETS, has become paramount. These regulations necessitate ongoing monitoring and reporting of carbon emissions, impacting operational strategies and legal obligations. Ship managers are challenged to adapt quickly to these regulatory changes, particularly concerning fleet management and compliance frameworks. The need for robust systems to track emissions and ensure adherence to new standards is critical, with digital solutions emerging as essential tools in navigating these regulatory landscapes effectively. This is why Columbia Group has invested in digital solutions such as OneLink and EmissionLink to enhance efficiency in navigating these complex regulatory landscapes.

-With the opening lately of CSM Dubai, how do you see future collaboration with the UAE as a maritime Hub, and the Middle East region?

As a global maritime outfit, the Columbia Group has maintained engagement with major stakeholders in the region. With our presence in the UAE, the Columbia Group is ideally positioned to align with and actively support the country’s ambitious 2050 vision for 
sustainability and zero emissions.  Our comprehensive service offering combined with our “can-do” and “project-led” approach, leverages advanced technology and optimisation systems, to not only meet but exceed client requirements in the region. By sharing our international expertise and creating synergies, we can deliver significant added value and contribute to the region’s standing as a leading maritime hub.