First of all, I would like to introduce myself as the new Business Director for Bulk Carriers in DNV. I become humble when I think of the previous Business Directors for Bulk Carriers in whose footsteps I am following: Hans Viig, Ulf Freudendahl and Morten Løvstad.
However, having worked in the DNV Laboratory and the Materials Section, on the design approval of bulk carriers, at a newbuilding yard and as a customer service manager in Piraeus and Singapore before heading the Class Entry Section at DNV’s head office for the past four years should give me a sound basis to stand on. In addition, with the network of bulk carrier experts we have in DNV, I am convinced that we will be able to support you in the times ahead.
Nevertheless, the times are challenging for us all. The global recession has hit shipping hard, especially the bulk carrier segment. Although rates have shown some recovery in the past few months, few analysts are willing to predict that we are through the worst part of the cycle. But shipping has always been cyclical and has always recovered, and you can count on DNV to support you through the cycles.
There is one more factor which is here to stay: the increased focus on the environment. We have therefore chosen this as the theme for this edition of DNV Bulk Carrier Update. We bring you an article covering the latest on climate change regulations, an article on the effects of slow steaming, and the latest on the US Clean Water Act. We also present two Greek ship owners, Aegean Bulk and Thenamaris, which have reduced their CO2 emissions through improved energy management procedures.
I hope you find the articles interesting and useful!
Date: 18 June 2009