The event was organized by St’ Nicholas Executive Events, the exclusive and proud partner of St’ Nicholas Business Club, offering high-level event planning and organizing services. This event was held on behalf of OceanCare, IFAW, Pelagos Cetacean Research Institute, and WWF Greece, as well as Arcadia Shipmanagement.
The discussion highlighted the challenges marine mammals face due to ship collisions and underwater noise pollution, with a special focus on the vulnerable sperm whale population in the Hellenic Trench.Innovative solutions were also presented, including the SAvE Whales system. This cutting-edge technology was developed and implemented by OceanCare, Pelagos Cetacean Research Institute, the Institute of Technology and Research (ITE), and The Green Tank, with the support of the Greek government. This system aims to reduce ship strikes in areas where route deviations are not feasible. The system detects sperm whales in real-time and alerts mariners to their presence.
Distinguished speakers that contributed with their expertise are:
- Capt. Dimitrios Matthaiou – CEO of Arcadia Shipmanagement, Chairman of the Green Award Foundation, Founder & President of St’ Nicholas Business Club
- Amalia Alberini – Marine Officer, WWF Greece
- Ioli Christopoulou – Partner & Policy Director, The Green Tank
- Alexandros Xydias – Policy Advisor & Shipping Expert, OceanCare & IFAW
- Capt. Apostolos Skempes – HSQE Manager, DPA & Training Manager, Arcadia Shipmanagement
- Andreas Dinkelmeyer – Campaigns Manager, IFAW
Our extensive experienced in marine conservation speakers provided valuable insights into strengthening whale protection measures. The importance of identifying high-risk maritime areas for the shipping companies to avoid, were analyzed. Furthermore all detrimental effects of ship strikes and underwater noise on marine ecosystems were discussed thoroughly.
Commitment to Shipping Sustainability
Capt. Dimitrios Matthaiou, Founder & President of St’ Nicholas Business Club, CEO of Arcadia Shipmanagement, and Chairman of the Green Award Foundation, emphasized on the urgent need to protect sperm whales in the Hellenic Trench.
He urged Greek shipping companies to follow Arcadia Shipmanagement’s example—being the first Greek shipping company to alter fleet’s routes to avoid the area. He also expressed keen interest in implementing policies to reduce underwater noise across the company’s fleet.
Additionally, he highlighted the pioneering efforts of the Green Award Foundation, which incentivizes shipping companies to adopt proactive measures to reduce ship strikes and underwater noise pollution through its global network of Incentive Providers.
You can access the presentation from the St’ Nicholas Business Club event through the following link:
https://www.filemail.com/d/zersucqcpzcngnd
Networking and Conclusions
Following the presentation, guests gathered for a drink at the Executive’s Bar – Hall of A General Group. Attendees continued their discussions in a relaxed setting, enjoying a selection of fine wines from St’ Nicholas Business Club, complemented by a buffet featuring vegan and vegetarian options. It was a great networking opportunity that gave us a thorough insight into protecting marine life.
Tags: St’ Nicholas Executive Events
