‘An industry that not only moves the world – but protects it’: OSM Thome

On the occasion of World Maritime Day, the following comment has been made by Xanthos Neofytou (pictured), Director, of Business Development and Marketing, OSM Thome:

“The theme of World Maritime Day 2025 — ‘Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity’ — resonates profoundly with the current trajectory of the global shipping industry. It acknowledges the dual responsibility we bear as both custodians of the oceans and drivers of global trade, while also highlighting the immense opportunity before us to shape a sustainable maritime future.

This theme is a timely and necessary call to action. Our obligation lies in recognising the environmental and human impact of our operations, from emissions and ocean pollution to the welfare of the seafarers who spend months at sea. The transition to greener practices, including alternative fuels and digital optimisation tools, is not just about compliance, it’s about securing the future of our oceans and our industry.

At OSM Thome, this sense of obligation informs everything from our investment in decarbonisation training for seafarers to our company-wide sustainability strategies.

But this moment also presents an opportunity. Technological advancement is opening doors to efficiency and innovation like never before. Whether it's AI-powered fleet optimisation, digital crewing platforms, or alternative fuel systems, we now have the tools to reduce our environmental footprint while enhancing safety, performance, and resilience. And just as importantly, we have the opportunity to reshape our workforce, to make it more inclusive, more adaptive, and more connected to the values of sustainability and equity.

‘Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity; invites the industry to look beyond short-term operational pressures and instead embrace long-term, collective leadership. It's about building an industry that not only moves the world — but also protects it.”