This article examines energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the maritime sector, highlighting strategies for improving energy efficiency and reducing environmental impacts. Ships rely on various energy forms—chemical, mechanical, electrical, and thermal—to operate, with propulsion consuming the largest share. However, burning fossil fuels generates significant CO2, NOx, SOx, and particulate emissions, contributing to global climate change. Energy efficiency measures include optimizing hull design, adopting hybrid propulsion systems, and utilizing alternative fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia, and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Emission control technologies like scrubbers and carbon capture and storage (CCS) are also explored as critical solutions. Global regulations, such as the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) 2023 GHG Strategy, aim to reduce emissions by 80% by 2040, but implementation faces barriers including immature technologies, high initial costs, and insufficient port infrastructure for alternative fuels. Emerging green technologies—air lubrication systems, renewable energy integration, and digitalized operations—are promising but require further research to achieve broader adoption and efficiency. The article underscores the importance of collaboration among regulators, industry stakeholders, and academia to address these challenges. By fostering innovation, investment, and infrastructure development, the maritime sector can transition toward more sustainable operations, aligning with global decarbonization goals.
