Marshall Islands: milestone reached for sustainable maritime transport

The arrival of the SV Juren Ae on 24 July 2024 symbolises the country’s unwavering commitment to protecting the environment, honouring its ancestors and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. For the Marshall Islands, the event is a milestone in the promotion of sustainable maritime transport – and in the move away from fossil fuels.

The Marshall Islands Minister of Transport, Hilton Kendall, expressed his thanks and enthusiasm at the welcoming ceremony: 

“We officially welcome the SV Juren Ae to her home port of Majuro. This ship is a beacon of hope, and a cornerstone of maritime education and sustainable shipping in the Marshall Islands. The arrival of the SV Juren Ae marks a key step on our path to a sustainable, energy-efficient future.”

The name “Juren Ae” is Marshallese and refers to one of the main paddles of the traditional canoe, which has been used for centuries in the atoll nation to steer ships in the required direction. So the name practically says it all, as the SV Juren Ae will serve as a training centre for seafarers and sailors and at the same time provide important services for the islands. By utilising renewable resources such as wind and solar energy, the vessel will significantly reduce the Marshall Islands' dependence on imported fossil fuels, resulting in significant economic and environmental benefits.

Maritime transport is very important to the Republic of the Marshall Islands because it promotes economic activity, connectivity and resilience, especially in the remote islands and atolls. SV Juren Ae is an example of the country’s commitment to sustainable development and climate action. As the ship set sail from South Korea, it conveyed a strong message of sustainability and innovation that resonates far beyond the Marshall Islands.