ClassNK has joined Evergreen, Samsung Heavy Industries, and Weathernews in a landmark MOU project to objectively verify ghg emissions and fuel reductions using AI-driven voyage optimization on a commercial vessel. The initiative leverages Samsung’s autonomous ship technology, Weathernews’ meteorological data, and Evergreen’s operational insights, with ClassNK providing independent technical review and issuing a Statement of Fact. This collaboration establishes a crucial industry benchmark for validating real-world digital decarbonization technologies and advancing sustainable maritime transportation.
Tokyo, Japan | August 20, 2026 – In a major step toward maritime decarbonization, leading classification society ClassNK has officially joined a collaborative industry project to objectively verify greenhouse gas (GHG) emission and fuel consumption reductions achieved through artificial intelligence (AI)-based voyage optimization.
The initiative brings together four key maritime powerhouses following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the headquarters of Evergreen Marine Corporation.
Project Overview and Objectives
As the global maritime industry accelerates its transition toward net-zero emissions, technologies that optimize vessel routing through advanced AI, weather forecasting, and autonomous navigation are gaining traction. However, proving the real-world efficacy of these systems remains complex due to fluctuating marine conditions, varying vessel loads, and distinct operational profiles.
To bridge this gap, the joint project aims to establish a rigorous, objective verification methodology using an actual commercial vessel in active operation. By leveraging operational data, the initiative will quantify the precise fuel-saving and GHG reduction benefits of integrating autonomous navigation systems with advanced weather routing.
Stakeholder Roles and Contributions
The project relies on a powerful synergy of expertise across four distinct maritime sectors:
- Evergreen Marine Corporation: Provides the active commercial demonstration vessel, supplies critical operational and fuel consumption data, and ensures full crew cooperation during live testing.
- Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI): Deploys its proprietary Samsung Autonomous Ship (SAS) system for real-time vessel control, alongside the active operation of the project’s speed optimization algorithms and onboard equipment maintenance.
- Weathernews Inc. (WNI): Delivers high-resolution meteorological and oceanographic forecasting, historical data, and the development of baseline voyage routes for comparative analysis.
- ClassNK: Acts as the independent technical authority, conducting a thorough technical review of the verification methodology and issuing an official Statement of Fact (SoF) upon successful validation.
Leadership at the MOU Signing Ceremony
The collaborative framework was cemented during an official signing ceremony attended by executive leadership from all four participating organizations:
- Capt. Jack H.M. Yang, Deputy Division Chief, Ship Division, Evergreen Marine Corporation
- Dr. Hyun Joe Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Ship & Offshore Research Institute, Samsung Heavy Industries
- Mr. Keemoon, Executive Director for Global SEA Division, Weathernews Inc.
- Dr. Yoshiya Yamaguchi, Executive Vice President, ClassNK
Looking Ahead
With ClassNK providing independent validation through its Statement of Fact framework, this project establishes a credible benchmark for evaluating AI-driven maritime technologies. ClassNK reaffirmed its commitment to supporting innovative decarbonization initiatives, driving the practical adoption of advanced digital solutions, and fostering sustainable maritime transportation worldwide.
About ClassNK
Established in 1899, ClassNK is a classification society dedicated to safety and environmental protection through third-party certification. ClassNK conducts diverse technical services, including surveys and classifications of ships and marine structures based on its own rules and international conventions on behalf of more than 100 flag states, as well as management system certifications in line with ISO and other industry standards. ClassNK is committed to providing the industry with full support to tackle digitalization and decarbonization challenges through expanding certification services and R&D with industry partners.
Source: ClassNK