The wider shipping community demonstrated strong engagement and commitment to sustainable maritime practices during the Round Table Discussion “ESG in Shipping: Critical Risks and Opportunities”, held on December 2nd, 2025, at the Piraeus Marine Club. Organized by the Hellenic Institute of Marine Technology (H.I.M.T.) with the support  by the Center for Sustainability & Excellence (CSE).

The Round Table opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Nikolaos Liapis, President of the Hellenic Institute of Marine Technology (H.I.M.T.), and P. C. Xanalatos, President of the Piraeus Marine Club. Their introductions were followed by insightful opening statements from S. Tsalamanios, Vice President of the Hellenic Shortsea Shipowners Association, P. Zachariadis, Member of the Board of Directors of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, and N. Mavrikos, Member of the Board of Directors of the Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Dr. Liapis moderated the discussion, guiding a balanced and constructive exchange among speakers throughout the session.

The agenda featured case studies from four leading organizations:
• Credia Bank – presented by K. Economou
• Enesel – presented by G. Poularas
• Tsakos Companies – presented by L. Margetis
• Prime Marine – presented by St. Niotis

CSE-Presented by Nikos Avlonas

These presentations highlighted how  ESG from risk management tool has become a booster for operations Excellence and driver for better engagement with the charterers and financial institutions.

Nikos Avlonas, President of CSE, delivered a keynote presentation titled “ESG in Shipping – Misconceptions and Reality.” His remarks focused on the practical challenges shipping companies encounter as ESG becomes more deeply embedded in strategic decision making, and clarified common misunderstandings that often hinder progress.

CSE is the leading ESG consulting and training firm in the shipping industry today, supporting clients with a fleet of over 250 vessels and bringing more than 20 years of experience in the field.