Focus on Environment at Suny Maritime

The State University of New York Maritime College’s 140th Anniversary Speaker Series presented a panel discussion on March 26 in the College’s Maritime Academic Center.  The topic was Environmental Issues in Shipping.

Panelists included Michael C. Carter, Director of the Office of Environment, U.S. Department of Transportation, Maritime Administration; John Hatley, Americas Vice President Ship Power, Wärtsilä North America; and Paal Johansen, Vice President and Regional Director, Regional Office Americas Houston, DNV GL – Maritime.

The panel discussion was moderated by Clay Maitland, Chairman, North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) and Managing Partner, International Registries, Inc.

“The speakers addressed how maritime colleges need to be in tune with industry leaders if they want to deliver high-quality and relevant curricula.   Knowledge of alternative fuels, increasing environmental regulations, and legislative initiatives are as meaningful to today’s students as knot-tying and celestial navigation were to earlier generations of maritime professionals,” said Timothy G. Lynch, Ph.D., Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Maritime College. 

“Presentations such as “The Future of Shipping” and “LNG as an Alternative Fuel” –presented by internationally-recognized authorities--were insightful and demonstrated the dynamic nature of today’s global maritime industry.  Knowing the impact of current and looming changes provides our students with a leg-up in this competitive arena,” Dr. Lynch added.

The 140th Anniversary Speaker Series at SUNY Maritime College is a year-long speaker series that focuses on leadership, maritime history, and current issues in the maritime industry.  Those discussions position Maritime College as a thought leader on issues related to the maritime industry.