Shipping is an essential part of the global economy, connecting countries and markets by transporting goods and commodities. The maritime sector plays a crucial role in international trade, with about 90% of global trade being transported on ships.

However, despite its efficiency and importance, shipping is responsible for a significant proportion of global air pollution. Specifically, it accounts for 18-30% of nitrogen oxide, 9% of sulfur oxides, and 3.5-4% of all climate change emissions. Research has revealed terrifying health risks from shipping pollution. A single large container ship can release as many cancer and asthma-causing chemicals as 50 million cars.

These frightening findings have led us to be concerned about the sustainability of current practices in the maritime sector. We need to adopt sustainable procurement practices to reduce the environmental impact of shipping. This article explores the importance of sustainable procurement practices in the maritime sector.

The Need for Sustainable Procurement Practices

The need for sustainable procurement practices in the maritime sector has become increasingly important as the world has become more aware of the negative impact that shipping can have on the environment. Sustainable procurement refers to the process of sourcing goods and services that minimize environmental impact and promote social responsibility.
In the maritime sector, sustainable procurement practices can have numerous benefits for companies, including:

Reducing Environmental Impact: By sourcing goods and services that are produced sustainably and have a lower environmental impact, companies can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change.
Compliance with Regulations: Many countries and organizations have regulations and guidelines in place to promote sustainable procurement practices. By following these regulations, companies can avoid penalties and maintain their reputation.
Improving Corporate Image: Sustainable procurement practices can improve a company’s image among consumers and stakeholders who value sustainability and social responsibility.
Cost Savings: Sustainable procurement practices can often lead to cost savings in the long run by reducing waste, improving energy efficiency, and increasing the lifespan of goods and services.

By adopting sustainable procurement practices in the maritime sector, you can make a positive impact on the environment, as well as on your company’s bottom line and reputation.

Implementing Sustainable Procurement Practices with SBN Technologics’ Ship Procurement System: A User-Friendly Solution

We need to implement sustainable procurement practices in the maritime sector to reduce environmental pollution and ensure a sustainable future.SBN Technologics’ Ship Procurement System (SHIPMATE) can help us achieve our sustainability goals by providing comprehensive and user-friendly procurement management software for ships. Here are some of the features of SHIPMATE that I have personally developed to help in implementing sustainable procurement practices:

  • Generates requisitions for spares, services, stores, etc., allowing for easy tracking of needed supplies
  • Sends automated quotation requests to vendors, reducing the time and resources needed for procurement
  • Automates vendor registration details and ratings, ensuring suppliers meet sustainability and ethical standards
  • Facilitates user-friendly vendor response forms, allowing for clear communication and transparency
  • Updates shore office for onboard inventory requirements, ensuring efficient supply chain management
  • Compatible with multi-currency quotations from multiple vendors, allowing for global procurement while maintaining sustainability standards
  • Easy mapping of office procedures into the system, streamlining procurement processes
  • Budgeting tool that aids decision-makers by exhibiting various balances of cost centers, promoting efficient and sustainable spending
  • Analyses lube oil consumption and maintains goods records for vendor evaluation, promoting sustainability in shipping operations
  • Contract suppliers listing and transport order generation for warehouses, ensuring the use of sustainable suppliers and reducing environmental impact
  • e-Market Interface, promoting sustainable practices and allowing for access to eco-friendly vendors
  • Intimation to Master the progress of each requisition and tracking of delivery to warehouse and vessel, promoting transparency and accountability
  • Inventory management, reducing waste, and promoting sustainable supply chain management

I am proud to say that at SBN Technologics, we have created the Ship Procurement System (SHIPMATE) to support companies in achieving their sustainability goals. Our user-friendly and comprehensive procurement management software for ships is designed to make the procurement process easier and more efficient.

Final Thoughts

Sustainable procurement practices are crucial for the maritime industry to reduce the negative impact on the environment and society. Shipping companies are taking steps towards implementing sustainable procurement practices, which can be supported by innovative technologies like SBN Technologics’ Ship Procurement System. With features like automated vendor registration, multi-currency transactions, and inventory management, it can aid in streamlining the procurement process for a more sustainable future. Contact us today to learn more about how our ship procurement system can support your sustainable procurement practices.