More than 350 participants representing 180 companies and organisations gathered in Athens to discuss practical action, industry challenges and the future of sustainable shipping.
The ESG Shipping Awards International – THE CONFERENCE 2026 attracted more than 350 participants representing 180 companies and organisations for a full day of strategic dialogue and the exchange of practical knowledge.
Opening the conference, Elena Athousaki, Principal of ESG Shipping Awards International, stressed the importance of moving from recognition to knowledge-sharing.
“Every important decision in shipping has an ESG dimension. The question is whether companies recognise and manage these impacts, risks and opportunities as part of their business strategy.”
She also highlighted that progress requires cooperation across the entire maritime value chain and a willingness to share practical experience.
The official opening also featured George Alexandratos, President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, who called for consistent international rules, regulatory certainty and workable decarbonisation decisions that safeguard shipping’s competitiveness, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.
“Ultimately, ESG must be about substance rather than bureaucracy, and measurable progress rather than declarations.”
“Let us set ambitious targets, be realistic in our methods and remain determined to protect both the environment and the competitiveness of our industry.”
