UHI Orkney presents hydrogen shipping expertise on the world stage at the United Nations

On Friday 20 June, Mark Shiner, Head of the Maritime Studies Department at UHI Orkney, known locally as the ‘Nav School’, addressed an audience of around 130 international delegates at the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters in London. 

Mark spoke alongside members of the Zero Emissions Ship Technology Association (ZESTAs), highlighting UHI Orkney’s leading role in advancing clean maritime training and zero-emission vessel operations.

The IMO, the maritime arm of the United Nations, sets global regulations for ship construction, navigation, maritime law, and crew training. Its assemblies bring together representatives from member states to scrutinise and shape every aspect of international maritime policy.

A key focus of this session was the urgent need to train crews to safely operate vessels powered by new, greener fuels such as hydrogen, methanol, ammonia, and battery-electric systems. UHI Orkney has been at the forefront of this transition for several years. Its hydrogen vessel training began with Orkney Ferries and an experimental hydrogen installation on the MV Shapinsay. Since then, demand for this specialist training has increased significantly, with the Nav School receiving enquiries from a range of pioneering vessel projects worldwide.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency now formally recognises two hydrogen crew training courses developed by Mark Shiner and hydrogen consultant Jon Clipsham – one for UK waters and one for international waters. 

Speaking about his address to the IMO, Mark Shiner said:

“I was very proud to be, literally, on the world stage talking about our training and showing, yet again, that Orkney punches above its weight. I’m looking forward to delivering training to some fascinating vessels in the coming months and years. This not only strengthens our reputation but also supports the sustainability of the Nav School at a local level.”

This recognition follows the team’s successful training of the crew of the MV Breakthrough, the world’s first liquid hydrogen super yacht, and growing demand from operators of other innovative vessels. 

Speaking at the IMO is by invitation only. Mark joined the event as part of the ZESTAs delegation, which holds official advisory status at the IMO. ZESTAs promotes zero-emission ship technologies, encourages collaboration across the sector, and ensures international regulators are informed of new developments and their potential.

Mark and his team are also working closely with vessel developers supported by the UK Government’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, continuing UHI Orkney’s contribution to the UK’s transition to a cleaner, greener maritime future.