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The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has recognised another 53 'green ships' from 41 companies that have qualified for the Green Ship Programme (GSP) at the Third Singapore Registry of Ships Forum (SRS Forum).

The GSP encourages Singapore-flagged ships to reduce carbon dioxide and sulphur oxides emissions. Qualifying Singapore-flagged ships can enjoy a reduction of initial registration fees and a rebate on annual tonnage tax. Since the GSP's inception in 2011, 247 green ships under the Singapore Flag have joined the programme.

Additionally, 10 maritime companies signed the Maritime Singapore Green Pledge. This brings the total number of signees to 100 companies since the initiative's inception in 2011. Companies signing the pledge commit to be responsible members of the international maritime community by supporting and promoting clean and green shipping in Singapore.

Five companies were also recognised for contributing up to the 85th million GT in the SRS tonnage.

Themed "Quality Shipping", this year's SRS Forum focuses on the importance of safe, responsible and sustainable maritime operations. Distinguished speakers from various stakeholder groups - Maersk, Singapore Environment Council and Singtel - were invited to share with some 250 senior maritime professionals and partners from Institutes of Higher Learning their expertise and insights on implementing, alongside business growth, best practices in shipping that take into consideration environmental and social responsibility.

Participants of the forum also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the MPA and Du Pont Company (Singapore) to collaborate on services and solutions for the maritime industry. The MOU was signed by MPA Assistant Chief Executive (Operations) Captain M Segar and Mr Hsing Ho, group managing director for DuPont ASEAN.

The MOU outlines areas for collaboration on working relationships focused on developing value propositions for services and solutions for the maritime industry. The projects will aim to promote the adoption of safety, operational risk and sustainability management practices.

MPA's Chief Executive Andrew Tan said: "We are pleased to see continuing strong industry support for the Green Ship Programme and Maritime Singapore Green Pledge. From 40 companies signing on to the Pledge in 2011, this has grown to 100 today. There are also now more than 200 ships under the Green Ship Programme. We will continue with our efforts to promote cleaner, safer and more efficient shipping."