Classification society DNV on Thursday (19 March) published an interview with Mr Wang YongXin, President of China Merchants Energy Shipping (CMES), on how they convert their decarbonization strategy into vessel‑level action using emissions data, scenario models, and targeted upgrades. 

Mr Wang also touched on marine fuel flexibility, immediate steps that can deliver fast gains and which technologies help to accelerate the transition:

DNV: The push towards net zero is reshaping almost every part of global shipping, and companies are navigating a fast-moving mix of regulations and commercial expectations. Based on CMES’ experience developing the Net-Zero Guide, what key insights and practical steps can companies take to stay ahead of these changes?

Wang: Through our exchanges with industry peers, we learnt that many companies recognize the urgency but need a clear, actionable roadmap. Our vision is that effective transition planning must begin with a precise review of regulatory risk in two directions: fleet construction and operational management. Companies need to plan ahead based on how new regulations will impact their future fleet and business models. They must advance short-term adjustments while integrating alternative fuels and new technologies into their long-term planning. By doing so, companies can not only meet regulatory requirements but also strengthen their competitive position in a market where sustainability increasingly drives commercial decisions.

DNV: Many companies tell us they understand what they need to do, but struggle with how to break it down into manageable steps. With that in mind, what would you say are the most effective ways for shipping companies to assess their current emissions profile and translate decarbonization objectives into actionable strategies across short-, medium-, and long-term horizons?

Wang: From our experience, the most effective approach is to view decarbonization through a full life-cycle lens and incorporate it into fleet development from the earliest design stages through to daily operations. At CMES, we have been applying this approach in recent years by integrating life-cycle decarbonization planning into our newbuilding, retrofit, and commercial management projects. This allows each vessel to start tracking carbon from the very beginning and to continue to optimize this throughout its operational life. From the outset, within a structured management framework, we use high-quality data and scenario analysis to review current emissions profiles. From there, we develop a phased roadmap that spans short-, medium-, and long-term scales. In the short term, it is important to foster operational improvements and energy-saving devices that deliver quick wins. Medium-term strategies should include preparing for fuel flexibility and retrofits, while long-term plans align fleet renewal with life-cycle decarbonization goals.

DNV: How should companies set and monitor decarbonization targets?

Wang: Governance is critical. Set clear KPIs, monitor progress, and adjust as regulations and technologies evolve. This strict approach ensures that investments are cost-effective, compliance is maintained, and fleets remain competitive in a fast-changing environment.

DNV: There is often a perception that meaningful decarbonization requires major fuel shifts, but in reality, a lot can be achieved through smarter operations and targeted upgrades. Which operational measures and technical upgrades offer the greatest potential for immediate efficiency gains?

Wang: We believe there are many things that companies can do right now. These actions are practical, quick to start, and directly reduce costs under requirements like the EU ETS. On the technical side, upgrades such as energy-saving devices offer strong returns, especially when timed with scheduled maintenance. Companies should prioritize measures based on cost and regulatory impact, starting with those that deliver the greatest reduction in carbon intensity and compliance costs.

DNV: What additional technologies will be key to accelerating fleet decarbonization?

Wang: We found that digitalization and intelligent fleet management systems are increasingly becoming critical enablers. High-quality emissions monitoring, AI-supported voyage organization, and digital twins allow companies to make more accurate real-time decisions. This technology also creates the data foundation needed for future fuel transitions and regulatory compliance. By combining operational management, planned technical upgrades, and advanced digital tools, shipping companies can achieve meaningful progress towards decarbonization without waiting for major fuel transitions.

DNV: Looking ahead, technologies, views, and regulatory expectations will all continue to evolve, sometimes faster than expected. What are the key priorities for shipping companies? What practical advice would you offer to the industry?

Looking ahead, I think it is clear to all of us that the pace of changing regulations, technologies, and market expectations will only speed up. For shipping companies, the next phase of the net-zero transition will require not only technical solutions but also strong organizational capability. As new digital systems, alternative fuels, and smart technologies become more widely adopted, companies will face new operational and safety challenges. Ranging from data reliability to crew readiness, my core message is this: invest in your people as much as you invest in your ships, stressing capability across operations, technical management, and commercial teams. This will enable them to manage new compliance demands and operate a more complex fleet with confidence. At the same time, no company can transition alone. Industry-wide collaboration, sharing lessons and partnering across the value chain, is critical to scaling results and reducing uncertainty. The priority now is clear: building capability, adapting new technologies, and collaborating with the value chain. Companies that do this will not only stay compliant, but will also be leaders in a market where performance, safety, and sustainability are defining competitiveness.

Photo credit: China Merchants Energy Shipping
Published: 24 March, 2026