The sustainable transition of the shipping industry is not solely a technological issue but is intrinsically linked to institutional quality and transparency, according to a new study published in the journal Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives.
The Role of Institutional Quality
The research, authored by Assistant Professor Petros I. Stavroulakis of the University of Piraeus, along with researchers Nefeli Alexandraki and Periklis Prousaloglou, examines the relationship between corruption, environmental governance, and maritime connectivity. The primary conclusion is that stronger institutions act as a barrier to corruption, facilitating the implementation of sustainable practices.
Beyond Technology
The study's authors emphasize that the industry's "green" shift requires more than just alternative fuels, new technologies, or ship retrofits. Its success depends on the ability of states to enforce regulations with:
- Transparency
- Consistency
- Accountability
Furthermore, the study finds that major maritime hubs have the potential to maximize the benefits derived from effective environmental policies, amplifying the impact of good governance on a global scale.
