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From an ESG perspective, digitalisation and AI support are now essential. They enable emissions monitoring, regulatory compliance, and evidence-based decision-making on decarbonisation measures. In practice, they help shipowners move from broad ambition to measurable performance. Fleets that use data intelligently are better positioned to improve CII ratings, support compliance with the EU ETS and FuelEU, and demonstrate progress to charterers, financiers, and other stakeholders.To what extent do data analytics and predictive models contribute to the reduction of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions on a day-today basis?They already contribute in a meaningful way, particularly when applied consistently and linked to strong operational discipline.Day-to-day fuel consumption is influenced by a combination of speed, weather routing, trim, draft, engine load profile, hull condition, auxiliary loads, and port-related delays. Data analytics help operators understand these variables in real time and identify when performance deviates from expectations.Continuous voyage optimisation and weather routing, supported by AI-based engines, can recalibrate route and speed every few hours, typically securing mid-single-digit fuel savings per voyage, with double-digit improvements occasionally achieved on certain trades.Predictive models are especially valuable because they allow teams to move from reactive management to proactive optimisation. Instead of only explaining why consumption increased after the fact, they can indicate where efficiency is likely to deteriorate and where corrective action is needed. This may relate to voyage planning, engine settings, hull fouling trends, or maintenance scheduling. AI models trained on high-frequency operational data can detect performance drift %u2014 such as fouling or trim inefficiencies %u2014 and recommend small, persistent adjustments that compound into lower daily fuel consumption and improved CII performance.That said, the real value does not come from the model alone. The benefit materialises when analytics are integrated into daily operational decisions both onboard and ashore. In my view, the combination of accurate data, experienced interpretation, and disciplined follow-up is what produces measurable reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. AI enhances this process, but operational judgment remains critical.How is the role of seafarers and shorebased teams evolving with the introduction of AI, remote operations, and smart vessels?The role is evolving from manual reporting and fragmented monitoring toward more informed, decision-oriented work.For seafarers, this does not mean they become less important; in fact, their role becomes even more critical. As vessels become more connected and systems generate increasing volumes of information, crews are expected to interpret alerts, validate data, and operate increasingly sophisticated equipment. The human element remains central because onboard operations still require judgment, prioritisation, and practical experience.For shore-based teams, digitalisation is changing the pace and quality of decision-making. Technical, operational, HSQE, and commercial departments now have access to more timely and detailed information, enabling earlier and more effective intervention. The focus is gradually shifting from managing events to anticipating them.As vessels become more connected and systems generate increasing volumes of information, crews are expected to interpret alerts, validate data, and operateincreasingly sophisticated equipment.The human element remains central because onboard operations still require judgment, prioritisation, and practical experience.May 2026 155