Jotun Insider

Jotun’s employees are all experts in their fields, from fire protection and hull performance to product innovation, colours and value-adding services. Here, we share our knowledge and opinions on the topics that drive our industry.

Shipping's climate role and biodiversity explored at COP29

The shipping industry, responsible for transporting approximately 90% of the world’s goods, is a fundamental part of the global economy. Yet, it also contributes significantly to climate change and the transfer of invasive species. To address this during COP29, Jotun took part in a panel discussion titled “Navigating the Future: Bridging Shipping, Biodiversity, and Decarbonization.” The importance of hull performance and marine coatings in driving sustainable change within the shipping industry got its needed attention.

Collaboration key to opening the untapped potential of hull management

Proven antifouling coatings and hull cleaning can have a positive impact in shipping’s drive for decarbonisation. However, there is a need for continued industry co-operation and insight sharing to find common agreement on best practices and standards if the untapped potential for further improvements is to be achieved, argued experts at the In-Port Inspection & Cleaning Conference (PortPIC).

Effective corrosion management vital for safer oil and gas operations

Maintenance management of corrosion and assets is experiencing increased focus as operators in the oil and gas industry look to improve safety, reliability, and profitability of their operations. Jotun’s newly released report showcases the growing strategic importance of maintenance in this sector, especially seen in the light of environmental aspects.

Jotun at Posidonia 2024

Championing and navigating cleaner shipping

There is no quick fix to decarbonise shipping, but big gains can be found just below the water surface. Even though more collaboration and disruptive innovation are needed, effective hull management and proactive cleaning are vital for a cleaner, more efficient shipping industry as they help reduce emissions, preserve fuel and protect the oceans’ biodiversity.

R&D propels the shipping industry forward

As the demands on environmental compliance, transparency and efficiency are escalating around the globe, the role of research and development (R&D) is a key for driving the industry forward. Its importance as being the first step in solving complex challenges cannot be over emphasized, but it is only of value if the industry is able to make use of the knowledge obtained.

The industry coming together: combatting the hidden CUI threat in the energy sector

The fight against corrosion, particularly corrosion under insulation (CUI), is increasingly becoming a main focus for the energy sector. How is the industry addressing this issue and how can risk be reduced? A new standard test procedure that addresses this critical industry challenge might pave the way, so that the energy sector better can maintain steel integrity.

HullPIC 2024 - photo of representatives

Interest in performance monitoring grows as efficiency rules bite

Utilising performance monitoring systems can aid shipping companies in showcasing regulatory compliance whilst gaining valuable insights into fleet performance projections but there are drawbacks. Better systems are needed to tap into the full potential of accurate data and energy saving solutions, argue industry experts at HullPIC.

Energy transition: why maintaining steel integrity has become critical

Corrosion, chemicals, heat and fire can cause major headaches for the energy sector which relies heavily on the integrity of steel components. In the first of a series of articles around the importance of maintaining steel integrity we examine the extent of the problem and identify the main areas of concern for onshore energy facilities.

Hull performance and the impact of EU ETS for ship operators

The European Union’s Emissions Trading System, or EU ETS, is a landmark initiative aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union. For ship operators, this means adapting to a changing regulatory landscape, directly impacting their profitability.

Vessel on the sea in night

Geopolitical risks and cost of green transition key concerns for shipping in 2024

Matters beyond the industry’s control is making meeting ambitions and compliance with regulation more expensive and difficult to achieve. The need for practical energy efficiency solutions is more important than ever.

How can the shipping industry become cleaner without losing traction and detracting from its economic importance?

Whatever measures are taken, it all begins and ends with a clean hull. Carrying over 80% of world trade by volume, shipping is essential for world prosperity, but it also has a significant impact on the planet; both by its contribution of polluting and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and by being the main vector for transferring invasive aquatic species around the globe.

green planet, EPDs

Examining the importance of EPDs

Sustainable or sustainability are perhaps two of the most overworked words encountered in business today. The good intention behind them is clear, but often defining what is and what is not sustainable is very difficult to pin down.

Transparent, real-time data key to sustainable operations

Fully exploring the potential of efficiency gains through proven data-driven vessel performance management is key to sustainable operations, meeting regulations and will be a principal requirement for ships of the future, argue industry experts.

Protecting offshore wind investment

Protecting the physical assets and ensuring they operate at peak efficiency for the longest time possible should be a key consideration for operators and stakeholders, argue coating experts at Jotun.

steel structure in sunshine

Fires, steel, safety and sustainability

Protection against fire is a vitally important aspect of building construction regulation around the globe. The prime purpose of fire protection is of course to save lives but in today’s world, ensuring sustainability is another important factor to consider.

Forging ahead with decarbonisation ambitions

The shipping industry is at a critical point where it is looking for options to make ships greener to meet the IMO decarbonisation goals. The challenge is highly complex and calls for collective action across the maritime industry. Optimism that such action was getting underway was evident at Nor-Shipping but there is a long way to go.

Regulation, innovation, and cleaner hulls a matter of business survival

More collaboration and disruptive innovation is urgently needed if the shipping industry is to succeed in reducing emissions, preserving fuel and protecting the environment, argue Jotun and Bellona executives.

Collaboration and innovation in battle to beat biofouling

Collaboration and innovation have been common threads running through many panel discussions and presentations at maritime conferences and exhibitions. At the recent Kongsberg Agenda 2023 event, the two themes converged in a discussion on how biofouling of ships can be tackled to cut emissions and protect biodiversity.

Morten Fon, Jotun CEO at Nor-Shipping 2023

Charting the course: reducing emissions, preserving fuel and protecting biodiversity

Watch the interview with Morten Fon, CEO of Jotun on the Ocean Stage at Nor-Shipping 2023. (Video credit: Nor-Shipping, TradeWinds and DNX)

Rise in offshore wind operations calls for tried and tested coatings

The power of the wind is here to be harnessed. But to ensure long-term and profitable operation of offshore wind structures, a high standard of corrosion protection will be needed to reduce steel usage and maintenance time and expense, argues Jotun’s Anders Skilbred who advocates a sustainable approach using proven solutions.

Early cleaning action leads to environmental and commercial advantages

There is no silver bullet to solve the global biofouling issue but the use of proactive hull cleaning without capture is one area operators – and the industry – can achieve significant impact.

Jotun collaborates with Terravera to work towards sustainability

Through collaboration with Terravera, Jotun is expecting to document the contribution to sustainability parameters specifically environmental or carbon footprint.

Shipping Outlook for 2023: Uncertainty, transparency and collaboration are the watchwords

A global recession looks to be looming and ship operators are bracing themselves for more challenges ahead. In these uncertain times, one thing remains clear: we are likely to see more collaboration as operators and industry alliances work together to achieve greater efficiencies and more sustainable operations to meet the changing market conditions and stricter environmental regulations.

Jotun at ONS 2022

Jotun's Baltoflake: A lesson in innovation

Today, as the industry evolves, how does Jotun approach innovation? How does Baltoflake prove to deliver maintenance free protection beyond 30 years? Watch the interview with Dr. Anders Skilbred and Ismail Tan from Jotun. (Video credit: ONS TV)

Changing times for oil and gas sector - Part 1: The changing energy world

This part takes a look at recent developments and the role oil and gas plays in the changing energy world.

Changing times for oil and gas sector - Part 2: Energy security in focus

This part centres on what the International Energy Agency thinks and takes a look at some of the key findings in its recent report.

Changing times for oil and gas sector - Part 3: The energy sector

This part puts the spotlight on what the energy sector is doing to address the power realities and demands.

Hull cleaning critical to tackling global biofouling issue

Hull cleaning is on the increase as owners and operators look for ways to reduce operational costs and environmental impacts. In our latest Jotun Insider article, we take a look at hull cleaning methods, with a particular focus on the new concept of proactive cleaning.

PortPIC adding value to biofouling debate

Biofouling management and in-water cleaning and inspection is becoming an increasingly important topic for the shipping world. But there is a need for more collaboration and action to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead, argue industry stakeholders at the recent PortPIC conference.

Interview with Morten Fon at Nor-Shipping 2022

Back to basics

There’s a lot of buzz about future fuels but, whether it's hydrogen or ammonia, hull performance- and the hardware that keeps them clean- will continue to serve as a critical driver of efficiency gains for ships. Watch the interview with Morten Fon, CEO of Jotun talking about hull performance at Nor-Shipping 2022. (Video credit: Nor-Shipping and TradeWinds)

Vessel on the sea in night

Energy efficiency developments on ship operators’ agenda

The industry’s ability to comply with the IMO’s 2023 energy efficiency measures demands accurate and proven performance management but there’s no quick fix.

Morten Fon, CEO of Jotun at Nor-Shipping 2022

Leaders beat the collaborate for action drum

Ocean leaders once again call for collaboration and trust along with action as shipping begins a return to something resembling normality.

Joining forces to tackle biofouling

A new international effort initiated by environmental NGO Bellona and supported by Jotun and other leading companies in the maritime industry, aims to develop an industry standard for proactive hull cleaning to tackle the global biofouling issue.

Corrosion damage submerged

Tackling corrosion

Corrosion costs the shipping industry up to $80Bn annually, something that could be addressed via extensive test methods that mimic real life, and which can be used to carry out remaining life-cycle assessments on coatings already in place, argue experts at Jotun Performance Coatings.

Ship hull just above the waterline

Insight-sharing and action critical to improving performance

Better performance management and in-water cleaning can improve vessel energy efficiencies and protect the environment. But there’s no one solution that fits all and experts argue that industry stakeholders, including regulators, port authorities, ship operators and technology providers must be involved, share insights and take action if the benefits are to feed through.

An image illustrating digitalisation for Jotun Insider

How is digitalisation impacting shipping?

Digitalisation is a megatrend that’s being discussed across industries. It’s a sign of the times, but how is digitalization impacting shipping? Our latest JMI article shares some insights and predictions.

Jotun HullSkater robot

More action needed to achieve maritime decarbonisation

Regulations, collaboration, innovation, green financing and clean hulls are important elements to maritime decarbonisation, but more action is needed to achieve the ambitious International Maritime Organisation (IMO) targets, said industry experts at the Ocean Now event.

Cargo ship seen from above

Green and sustainable shipping

Shipping is the most efficient way to transport goods around the world. However, the shipping industry is facing a wave of changes as it grapples with new regulations, technology and transparency. So, what is the future of the container shipping industry? And which measures should be taken to achieve green and sustainable shipping?

Father and son holding hands in a field as they look towards the sun

Outlook for 2021: clearer waters, but challenges still ahead

The shipping industry is sailing in choppy waters. In addition to facing more environmental and efficiency requirements, COVID-19 has disrupted sea trade, ship building, ship technology and the economic picture. The question now is will it get even worse before it gets better? Jotun Maritime Insider shares some industry insights and what they think the future holds.

Container ship side view

Innovation and collaboration key to addressing in-water cleaning issues

Industry stakeholders at PortPIC stress importance of more innovation, collaboration and aligned initiatives to shape sustainable solutions for in-water cleaning.

Call for uniform definition of solvent-free coatings

“The move to solvent-free coatings is a positive step but a holistic, performance-based approach is needed,” says industry veteran Johnny Eliasson, hull and coatings expert at Chevron Shipping: “A clear, science-founded definition based on ISO or NACE standards will benefit the industry as a whole.”

Focus on ballast tank coatings

Ballast tanks are an essential element of ships and yet are often overlooked until they are found to be causing a problem. Jotun Maritime Insider takes a closer look at the issues and how the use of suitable solvent-free coatings can bring environmental and cost benefits for yards and ship owners.

Environmental regulations driving the development of new coatings

New regulations on coating formulation and application are being formulated around the globe and in particular in South Korea and China with the EU expected to follow suit. This poses significant challenges for both the shipyards and coating manufacturers and will require innovation and collaboration to develop new products, argues Jotun expert.

Jotun Insider - Managing fouling risks

Managing fouling risks

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has turned shipping on its head. The effect has been a massive fall off in shipping demand, with hundreds of cruises and liner sailings cancelled and many vessels going into lay-up. Andreas Krapp, Global Concept Director for Drydock at Jotun, shares some key considerations of lay-ups and idling, and what measures can be taken to minimise fouling risk

Container ship and two other ships at sea

Navigating the decarbonisation challenge

While the shipping industry continues to suffer under Covid-19 restrictions, there is growing concern about how the industry is to contribute its share to a cleaner, greener future. But shipping already has its decarbonisation goals in place and new technologies, including advanced hull coatings, have a large role to play in achieving greater vessel efficiency and reducing fuel use.

Jotun Insider - Morten Fon CEO with HullSkater

Innovative technology key to addressing biofouling challenge

Industry partners agree there is no quick fix to solving the biofouling issue but Jotun Hull Skating Solutions brings the potential to disrupt the coatings and hull cleaning markets, and help ship operators tackle one of the industry’s most pressing challenges.

Proactive solution for fouling prevention launched

Jotun has unveiled Jotun Hull Skating Solutions, an innovative, proactive and sustainable means to help ship owners and operators maintain always clean hulls in the most challenging operations.

Ships hull red and black close up

Spotlight on hull cleaning

The economical and environmental impact of fouling, combined with increasing legislation, are adding to the pressure for more innovation and improvement in hull cleaning methods.

Focus on scrubber-proof coatings

Scrubber systems can play an important role in compliance with upcoming IMO 2020 regulation. However, one often overlooked aspect of installation is paint selection.

Jotun Insider - Erna Solberg United Nations Congress

Investment in innovation and collaboration key to responsible growth

High profile speakers and shipping executives at Nor-Shipping stress importance of innovation and collaboration amid changing landscape and tightening environmental regulations.

Expert panel at Wallenius Wilhelmsen sustainable shipping partner event in Oslo

Setting the course for greener shipping

Norway is well-positioned to lead efforts for the transition to low-carbon shipping, but government and shipping executives stress more collaboration, technology and innovation is needed to achieve global emission reduction goals.

Ocean Pod: Can marine coatings offer ecological and economical benefits?

Shipowners and operators want their vessels to operate faster, cheaper and greener to meet rising competition and new environmental regulations.

Expert panel at Nor-Shipping 2019

How can industry meet the biofouling challenge?

Experts at Nor-Shipping agree there is no quick fix to solving the biofouling issue. Antifouling coatings, cleaning technology and performance monitoring can all help to prevent fouling but there’s also a need for regulations and financial incentives to encourage more investment by operators.

Delegates at annual Hull Performance & Insight Conference, organised by Jotun and DNV GL

Growing industry interest in vessel performance

Market pressures and environmental performance regulations are on the rise, leading to increasing interest in performance systems as shipowners and operators work to achieve greater efficiencies.

Container ship at sea

Performance monitoring critical to optimising vessel performance – and saving money

The shipping industry is transforming. To meet the new regulatory requirements and market needs, ship owners and operators need to enhance their capability to offer innovative, relevant and efficient services. Technical and operational measures can improve performance, but it is vital that performance monitoring systems are used to measure their effect.

Spotlight on biofouling

Biofouling – the next big environmental battle? What will it mean for coating makers and operations in general? ShipInsight put these fundamental questions in the spotlight.

Logowall of companies in maritime ecosystem

Navigating the wave of digitalisation

Many companies talk of ‘digital disruption’ or ‘paradigm shift’; but very few can explain exactly where to start the digital journey with any kind of certainty argues digital expert.

Close up of container ship

Sustainable shipping: why does it matter and what does it entail?

Sustainability is gaining a foothold in the maritime industry. Jotun Maritime Insider looks at why it matters and what measures companies are taking to achieve safer, greener and more efficient operations.

Jotun Insider - manager and visualisation on how digitalisation will impact shipping

How will digitalisation impact shipping?

Digitalisation is a hot discussion topic and the key question that is being asked is, how will it impact shipping? Leading industry players believe developments in digital will provide many opportunities and benefits but the industry-wide digital transition will take time.

Underwater marine robot

Robots ahead

Underwater robotic cleaning and inspection is set to play a bigger role as owners and operators strive for fuel-efficient, sustainable operations.

2 crew members monitoring hull performance chart

Focus on efficiency pays dividends

Technical innovations and energy efficiency are key to achieving sustainable operations argues Awilco technical director Christopher Andersen Heidenreich.

Dealing with ballast water

The entry into force of the global treaty to halt invasive aquatic species has led to much debate in the shipping industry as ship owners and operators work to implement the IMO’s ballast water treatment regulation.

Two applicators spray painting red ship hull

Spotlight on surface preparation and application

How is the full performance and quality of marine coatings achieved? There is no simple recipe, but proper surface preparation and application is key.

Environmentally friendly decisions

A holistic approach is crucial in order for the badge of “environmental friendly” to have any true meaning argues Jotun sustainability executive.

A look ahead - trends that will shape shipping in 2018

Economic upswing in growth gives rise to cautious optimism among top names within the shipping industry. Policy, regulations and digitalisation will continue to impact the industry in 2018.

Green ship deck

Onboard maintenance planning saves money

Many shipping companies struggle in today’s tough markets and seek greater and greater savings. One way to achieve this is through onboard maintenance planning.

Jotun engineer profile checking documents

How technology is transforming shipping

Shipping executives stress the importance of technology and innovation to drive greater sustainability in the maritime industry.

A red and green ship hull

10 ways to reduce fuel cost

Fuel is still one of, if not the biggest expense in ships operation. With this in mind, and before the onset of new regulations, it's likely the best possible time to consider ways to reduce fuel costs.

Coating advisors yellow overalls and white hard hats on deck pointing

The role of the coating advisor: upholding quality standards

As regulatory scrutiny on ship operators increases, so in turn does the spotlight on marine coatings manufacturers which must uphold standards of quality with regards to their products and technical services. Coating advisors play a pivotal role in making this happen.

Engineer spray cleaning tank

Cleaning and the effects of retained cleaning water in tank coatings

Jotun research identifies issues that can adversely affect the coating lifetime and performance stemming from the use of cleaning water in cargo tanks.

A ship hull with red coating

5 facts about coatings that should not be ignored

The conversation about the importance of antifouling measures is growing. Here’s 5 reasons why shipowners and operators should not ignore the debate and opt for quality marine coatings.

Coating advisors

New standard will benefit responsible suppliers, owners and the environment

Industry hails new ISO 19030 standard for measurement of changes in hull and propeller performance as ship owners and operators work to improve their fleet and hull performance, and reduce their fuel bills and emissions.

Jotun Insider - New ISO 19030

New ISO 19030 can contribute to reducing fleet energy costs and emissions

In our forum for highlighting important topics in the maritime industry, director of business development at Jotun Marine, Geir Axel Oftedahl, shares his views on the new ISO 19030

Two engineers, yellow overalls and hard hats

Are you prepared for the new shipping environmental regulations?

As cost pressures dominate corporate agendas, many ship operators have come to realise that in the increasingly regulated shipping industry they must do more to achieve a sustainable future. Just focusing on operational costs is no longer enough.

Acting on the digital imperative

It is almost impossible to escape the word digitalisation when attending a shipping conference or perusing trade media these days. While many ship operators are still struggling to grasp what digitalisation can do for their operations, Klaveness is busy pursuing its ambition to become the leading digital bulk operator.