Barcelona will host the debate on decarbonization and new fuels at the Short Sea Shipping Conference 2024

This event will bring together the main leaders of the Spanish maritime sector and will feature the participation of international representatives of the European Union and the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Key issues to be addressed will be the decarbonisation of maritime transport, the use of new fuels and the European Maritime Single Window (EMSW).

One of the most anticipated debates will revolve around the decarbonisation of maritime transport, moderated by Gustavo Santana, director general of the Merchant Navy. The president of the Council of the IMO and Coordinator for the European Maritime Area They will explain how the new regulations impact the competitiveness of the Short Sea Shipping. Another highlight will be the adoption of new fuels, led by Ana Arevalo, from the Port of Barcelona, who will assess energy alternatives and their short- and medium-term challenges.

Furthermore, Almudena Escobedo, head of the Regional Customs and Excise Department of Catalonia, will explain the impact of the VUME and the new Union Customs Code (UCC) in maritime operations. Finally, Benito Nunez, Secretary General of Air and Maritime Transport, and Adolfo Utor, President of Baleària, will discuss Spain's maritime strategy and the future of the sector.

The president of SPC Spain and the European ShortSea Network (ESN), Elena SecoHe highlighted the importance of the event, which coincides with Spain's presidency of the European network: "It is a unique opportunity to reinforce the commitment to sustainability and competitiveness in the maritime sector."

The event will culminate with a tour of the port facilities aboard a Golondrina, offering attendees a privileged view of the Port of Barcelona from the sea.