Maritime Matters

Maritime Business in Transition

Competition, Innovation and Resilience In this episode of Maritime Matters, Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, sits down with Burkhard Sommer, partner at PwC and head of the Maritime Competence Centre in Hamburg. With over twenty years' experience in maritime advisory and a background spanning ship owners, shipyards, finance, and logistics, Burkhard Sommer brings a comprehensive perspective to the evolving landscape of German and global maritime business. Their conversation traverses the industry's transition since the shipping crisis, the resilience and transformation of German shipping companies, consolidation trends across logistics and port operations, and the delicate balance between strategic interests and open market policies. Together, they unpack the interplay of innovation, regulation, and global volatility shaping the maritime sector. Their conversation traverses the industry's transition since the shipping crisis, the resilience and transformation of German shipping companies, consolidation trends across logistics and port operations, and the delicate balance between Key Topics: • Resilience and Transformation of German Shipping: Burkhard Sommer explains how German shipping companies have adapted post-crisis. The discussion covers performance outlooks, strategic reorientation, and the ongoing need for reinvestment and renewal. • Consolidation and Integration in Maritime Logistics: The episode analyses the wave of consolidation across logistics, shipping lines, and terminal operations. Burkhard Sommer outlines how companies seek greater stability and competitiveness by expanding their footprints across the supply chain • Strategic Importance and Security: The speakers discuss the increasing recognition of ports, shipping companies, and shipbuilders as strategic assets. Burkhard Sommer details the challenges of balancing economic openness with security concerns, the role of international partnerships, and the notion of “friend shoring” in critical maritime sectors. • Innovation and Investment in Shipbuilding: Focusing on Germany’s shipbuilding niche, the conversation highlights the need for continual investment, collaboration, and technological advancement to maintain competitiveness in specialised, high-value segments. Guest Bio: Burkhard Sommer is a partner at PwC and heads the Maritime Competence Centre in Hamburg, leading a network of more than 120 specialists worldwide. With extensive expertise across mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, strategy, and advisory, he has worked with leading players in shipping, shipbuilding, finance, and logistics. Burkhard Sommer began his career in the automotive sector before joining PwC and dedicating himself to the maritime industry. Nautical Numbers: Burkhard Sommer's chosen number is 189 million: the amount of money spent by a German industry foundation from 2013 to 2025 on training officers, seafarers, and engineers. Industry-funded, this initiative was created to sustain maritime personnel numbers as the German fleet shrank, providing ongoing support for both basic and advanced training. Navigator’s Table For a taste of maritime Hamburg, Burkhard Sommer recommends Restaurant Nil [https://restaurant-nil.de/] in St. Pauli – a high-quality, monthly changing menu set amid the lively neighbourhood close to the port. With its name referencing the Nil river and its maritime spirit, it is both a culinary and cultural landmark for visitors. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for insights and expert perspectives from Germany and beyond. For further information, event updates, and global maritime viewpoints, visit the German Maritime Centre’s website [https://dmz-maritim.de/en/]. If you found this conversation useful, share it with colleagues and listen for more in-depth content from Hamburg and the world’s maritime hubs.

Maritime Decarbonisation

Green Fuels and Energy Efficiency In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, welcomes Jason Stefanatos, Global Decarbonisation Director at DNV Maritime. With more than 15 years’ experience in the sector and a background in naval architecture, Jason works closely with ship owners, shipyards, and maritime stakeholders worldwide to support the shipping industry’s transition towards cleaner, more efficient operations. Their conversation explores the realities of maritime decarbonisation, covering alternative fuels, regulatory pressures and complexity, strategic choices for ship owners, and the wealth of innovation driving energy efficiency. Together, they examine both the technical and economic challenges and the global frameworks shaping the industry’s decarbonisation journey. Key Topics: The State of Maritime Decarbonisation: Jason provides a candid overview of progress so far, highlighting significant gains in fleet efficiency and the rapid uptake of alternative fuels, while emphasising that the pace remains gradual and dependent on cooperation across the supply chain. Navigating the Regulatory Landscape: The discussion unravels the complex patchwork of existing and pending emissions rules at both European and international levels. The speakers assess risks of fragmented systems, the influence of the EU as a regulatory leader, and industry hopes for a global framework over regionally isolated schemes. Alternative Fuels and Fuel Optionality: The episode evaluates the current status and future prospects of alternative fuels such as LNG, methanol, ammonia, and biofuels. Jason explains why flexibility is now integral to ship design and investment, helping owners mitigate risk in an uncertain market. Innovation in Energy Efficiency: Beyond fuels, they spotlight the “golden decade” of technology innovation that offers owners multiple paths to cutting consumption and emissions, from hydrodynamic improvements and hull coatings to wind-assisted propulsion and digital performance monitoring. Guest Bio: Jason Stefanatos is Global Decarbonisation Director at DNV Maritime, one of the world’s leading classification societies and maritime advisers. With a degree in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens, Jason has spent his career bridging research, business development, and consulting for ship owners in Greece, Norway, and beyond. He is a recognised expert on decarbonisation strategies, regulatory compliance, and maritime innovation. Nautical Numbers: Jason’s chosen number is 10%: the share of the global shipping fleet currently able to burn alternative fuels. While it marks substantial progress, it also means 90% of vessels continue to rely on conventional fuels, underscoring both the industry’s achievements and the formidable road ahead. Navigator’s Table: Thinking outside the box, Jason recommends “anywhere that fries things” – a nod to used cooking oil as a feedstock for sustainable biofuels helping power cleaner ships. By dining on fried food, listeners might be (indirectly) supporting a circular economy solution for maritime decarbonisation. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for conversations with industry leaders shaping maritime Germany and the global sector. For more on upcoming events, cluster activities, and maritime perspectives through a German lens, visit the German Maritime Centre’s website [https://dmz-maritim.de/en/]. If you found this episode valuable, please share it with maritime colleagues and keep listening for more expert insights from Hamburg and around the world.

Law of the Sea in Transition: Governance and Regulation on the High Seas

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, is joined by Professor Nele Matz-Lück, co-director of the Walter Schücking Institute for International Law at Kiel University and one of Europe’s foremost experts on the international law of the sea. Their discussion explores the legal frameworks governing the world’s oceans, how these adapt (or struggle to adapt) to modern challenges, and the implications for businesses, policymakers, and society at large. Professor Matz-Lück offers insights into evolving maritime governance, covering environmental considerations, the new high seas treaty, and the complexities of human rights protection at sea. Together, they consider the realities of enforcing the law on the high seas, the critical importance of legal order, and the outlook for future sustainability and cooperation. Key Topics: • The Evolution of the Law of the Sea: Professor Matz-Lück explains why the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) remains the central framework, even as new challenges demand supplementary treaties, dynamic interpretation, and ongoing reform. • Legal Challenges and Enforcement: The conversation explores the difficulties of addressing modern maritime issues such as the shadow fleet, substandard vessels, sanctions evasion, and deep-sea cable protection. Professor Matz-Lück outlines the limited powers coastal states possess to police international waters, and the perils of eroding legal norms. • Human Rights, Business Interests, and Environmental Dilemmas: The episode delves into the interface between commercial freedoms, human rights at sea, and environmental concerns. • The Future of Maritime Governance: Despite growing pressures on the rule-based order, which is exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and disregard for international law by some states, Professor Matz-Lück remains convinced of the law’s foundational value, while acknowledging the urgent need for multilateral cooperation and legal evolution. Guest Bio: Nele Matz-Lück is a professor of Public International Law, with a particular focus on the Law of the Sea, at Kiel University. She is co-director of the Walther Schücking Institute for International Law at Kiel University and a leading authority on international law of the sea. She has held posts at institutions such as the Arctic University of Norway, Dalhousie University in Canada, and the Max Planck Institute for Comparative Public Law and International Law in Heidelberg. In addition to her academic positions, she also serves as a judge at Schleswig-Holstein’s Constitutional Court. Her research bridges ocean governance, environmental law, and human rights. Nautical Numbers: Professor Matz-Lück’s chosen number is 31, which is the number of landlocked states that are parties to UNCLOS. This underlines how even states without a coastline see vital interests in the rule-based ocean order, with rights to high seas freedoms and responsibilities for maritime governance. Navigator’s Table: Professor Matz-Lück recommends Seebar [https://seebar-kiel.de/] in Kiel, a waterside restaurant built over the water with stunning harbour views. For those further afield, she suggests Cow’s Ice Cream [https://maps.app.goo.gl/yRG8cAankDYZgDUj7] at Halifax Waterfront, Canada – perfect for a stroll along the harbour, enjoying maritime sights and flavours. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for conversations with industry leaders shaping maritime Germany and the global sector. For more on upcoming events, cluster activities, and maritime perspectives through a German lens, visit the German Maritime Centre’s website [https://dmz-maritim.de/]. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with colleagues in the industry and keep listening for more expert insights from Hamburg and around the world.

Hamburg as a Maritime Conference and Exhibition Hub

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, welcomes Claus Ulrich Selbach, Vice President Exhibitions Maritime & Energy at Hamburg Messe und Congress. The discussion centres on Hamburg’s role as a maritime hub, the city’s unique advantages for convening the international shipping and energy industries, and the future of trade fairs, innovation, and cluster development. Uli shares reflections from over 25 years in the events sector, offering insights into how Hamburg has grown its reputation as a global meeting place for maritime professionals. Key Topics: • Hamburg as a Maritime Hub: Uli describes the city’s central location, vibrant port, and its role in attracting maritime businesses and events. • Global Trade Fairs and Cluster Growth: The episode highlights major events such as SMM and Wind Energy Hamburg, as well as new initiatives like All About Ports. Uli explains how these fairs not only bring visitors but also foster cluster development and global partnerships. • Innovation and Industry Adaptation: Uli details the importance of constant innovation, feedback, and staying ahead of industry trends. • International Cooperation and Expansion: The conversation includes Hamburg Messe und Congress’s joint ventures and projects abroad, in places such as Mumbai and Singapore, illustrating the city’s global outlook and reach. Guest Bio: Claus Ulrich Selbach is Vice President Exhibitions Maritime & Energy at Hamburg Messe und Congress GmbH, overseeing a portfolio of leading international trade fairs including SMM and Wind Energy Hamburg. With a background in social sciences and history, and decades of sector experience, Uli is recognised for his strategic approach to networking, business development, and cluster growth in Hamburg and beyond. Nautical Numbers: Uli’s chosen figure reflects the diversity of future propulsion systems for shipping, emphasising the need for a blend of technologies: hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, LNG, wind, and more. He notes SMM as the only global event where all these solutions can be found together and discussed in depth. Navigator’s Table: Uli recommends the Hafen-Klub [https://www.hafen-klub.de/de/home.html] in Hamburg as his favourite maritime dining spot – an exclusive members’ venue offering stunning views of the port and Hanseatic flair. Events can be arranged there, or listeners can try to join as guests for a unique Hamburg experience. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for conversations with industry leaders shaping maritime Germany and the global sector. For more on upcoming events, cluster activities, and maritime perspectives through a German lens, visit the German Maritime Centre’s website [https://dmz-maritim.de/en/]. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with colleagues in the industry and keep listening for more expert insights from Hamburg and around the world.

UN Ocean Decade Midway Review and the Impact of the BBNJ Treaty

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, is joined by Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission at UNESCO. Drawing on his extensive experience in international ocean governance, including previous roles in the Norwegian government and the Nobel Foundation, Vidar Helgesen shares insights into global efforts to deepen our understanding of the ocean and protect its vital resources. The conversation covers the mission and achievements of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, the UN Ocean Decade and its key milestones, and the emerging importance of the private sector in data sharing. The episode also delves into the new BBNJ treaty governing biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction and explores how innovation, regulation, and collaboration are shaping the future of the blue economy. Key Topics: • The Work of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission: Vidar Helgesen explains the Commission’s role as the UN’s body for ocean science, observation, and data coordination. • The UN Ocean Decade – Progress and Priorities: Midway through the Decade, more than 600 global projects are underway, focusing on urgent gaps in ocean knowledge. • Data Sharing and the Private Sector: The episode highlights the critical need for maritime businesses to contribute data – and how national regulation, as seen in Norway, can boost transparency and scientific breakthroughs. • The BBNJ Treaty – High Seas Governance: Vidar Helgesen outlines the significance and implementation challenges of the new treaty on biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction. • The Digital Twin of the Ocean and Public Awareness: The potential of digital twins to predict ocean events, bolster scientific inquiry, and strengthen society’s connection to the oceans. Guest Bio: Vidar Helgesen is Executive Secretary of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission. With decades of leadership in international diplomacy, environmental policy, and democracy promotion, he has served as Norway’s Minister of Climate and Environment, Special Representative for the Ocean, and as Executive Director of the Nobel Foundation. His work today focuses on mobilising science, data, and global action for the sustainable management of the world’s oceans. Nautical Numbers: This episode’s standout figure is 3% – the proportion of ocean biodiversity data contributed by the private sector to UNESCO’s Ocean Biodiversity Information System, with half of that coming from Norway thanks to progressive data-sharing regulations. The discussion underscores the transformative potential if more companies shared their ocean data. Navigator’s Table: Vidar Helgesen recommends a small seafood shack in Arniston [https://maps.app.goo.gl/Eh4pFytKiJLKzgGH6], a coastal village at the southern tip of Africa, as his most memorable maritime dining experience. With the freshest catch and simple hospitality, it serves as a reminder of both the richness of the ocean and the vital livelihoods it supports across the globe. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Maritime Matters for more interviews with leaders and experts shaping the maritime sector. Visit the German Maritime Centre’s website [https://dmz-maritim.de/en/] for updates, events, and information about Germany’s maritime industry and global maritime developments. If you found this episode insightful, share it with colleagues and partners in the shipping world. Stay tuned for more global perspectives through a German lens.