During the fair, we had the pleasure of welcoming numerous industry professionals and interested visitors to our stand. Topics of discussion included short sea shipping, alternative propulsion technologies, and securing skilled labour – all of which are key challenges for the maritime future.
A special visitor came from Lower Saxony: State Secretary Matthias Wunderling-Weilbier from the Lower Saxony Ministry for Economic Affairs visited our stand together with a delegation from Seaports of Niedersachsen GmbH and exchanged views with the DMZ team on site.
Panel discussion on sustainable waterborne logistics
A highlight of our presence at the trade fair was the panel discussion hosted by the DMZ on 3 June, entitled “ The Role of Short Sea Shipping and Inland Waterway Transport in the Energy Transition and Modal Shift”. The discussion, moderated by Capt. Runa Jörgens (Head of Topics and Projects, DMZ), brought together experts from the maritime sector to explore how shipping can contribute to sustainable logistics.
The event placed a spotlight on the untapped potential of short sea and inland waterway transport, particularly in the context of energy transition. “All modes of transport must play a role in tackling this immense infrastructure challenge,” emphasised Prof. Dr. Stefan Ulreich, Professor of Energy Economics at Biberach University of Applied Sciences, in his opening remarks. He noted that inland navigation in particular already offers significant climate advantages that could be further enhanced in the future.
In addition to climate-friendliness, the speakers identified other underutilised advantages of short sea and inland waterway transport, including exemption from planning permission requirements, flexibility, and available transport capacity. Moreover, increased use of waterways can help free up capacity on existing road and rail corridors.
However, the optimal use of short sea and inland waterway transport is still hindered by a lack of attention and commitment at various levels. The panellists called on all stakeholders to engage in more communication and collaboration, as well as to establish clear political frameworks. This is especially urgent considering broader economic challenges, such as the growing shortage of skilled workers.
The conclusion of the discussion: stronger networking among all players and greater political will are essential to establish short sea shipping and inland waterway transport as key pillars of a sustainable transport transition. “The waterway is not a niche topic, but an underestimated key to sustainable logistics,” summarised Runa Jörgens at the end of the event.
transport logistic 2025: a platform for the future
The fair once again proved to be an important venue for engaging conversations and fresh inspiration for the DMZ’s collaborative efforts. “Once again, the fair has confirmed just how important face-to-face exchange is for developing joint solutions to transform the maritime industry,” emphasised Managing Director Dr. Matthias Catón.
