AkzoNobel’s marine coatings brand International has announced its partnership in RightShip’s Zero Harm Innovation Partners Programme, with the intention of reinforcing the company’s commitment to a safer, cleaner, and more efficient maritime industry.
The marine coatings company has joined the RightShip initiative, which brings together organisations advancing technologies and solutions that support improved environmental and safety outcomes across the maritime sector. This partnership underscores the role of advanced coating technologies in achieving smoother hull surfaces, thereby reducing resistance, lowering power demand, enhancing energy efficiency and significantly cutting GHG emissions.
For shipowners who invest in proactive hull management and advanced coating technologies, RightShip has adopted internationally recognised ITTC guidelines to support the consideration of coating performance within its GHG Rating methodology. This supports greater transparency for charterers seeking vessels with strong energy-efficiency performance and a reduced environmental footprint.
Through the partnership, the Intersleek range of biocide-free, foul-release coating technology from International is claimed to deliver energy-saving benefits and may be taken into account within RightShip’s GHG rating methodology. This includes Intersleek 1100SR, a class-verified carbon reduction technology solution that is said to have helped shipowners reduce more than 47m tons CO₂e and saved over US$ bn in fuel costs over the past decade.
The slime-release coating helps vessel operators meet IMO carbon reduction targets by controlling micro-fouling without harmful biocides, thereby minimising ecological impact on marine ecosystems. Suited for slow steaming and warm water operations, this technology reduces hull drag, improves fuel efficiency and maintains performance throughout docking cycles.
Chris Birkert, Marine Segment Manager, AkzoNobel said: “We’re extremely proud that our innovative coating technologies have been accepted within this programme, where we can continue to collaborate with stakeholders across the industry in sharing ideas and innovations for the betterment of our customers. A zero-harm maritime industry demands closer ties between partners, and we look forward to healthy discussions and collaborations in the years to come. High-performing, biocide-free fouling control coatings such as Intersleek 1100SR will remain a necessary option for shipowners as they work toward compliance with IMO’s carbon reduction targets and the goal of achieving net zero by 2050.”
Ajinkya Kadam, Head of Partnerships, RightShip, added: “Innovation plays a critical role in delivering real progress toward zero harm. Through the Zero Harm Innovation Partners Programme, we work with companies such as AkzoNobel and its International brand to improve visibility and technical understanding of solutions like advanced hull coatings, and how credible energy-saving technologies can be consistently reflected within RightShip’s assessment frameworks—supporting safer, more sustainable and informed decision-making across the industry.”
Image: Application of Intersleek (source: AkzoNobel)
