The Colour-coded Hydrogen Production; An Overview of Environmental Impacts, Economic Implications, Technology Readiness Level and Maritime Skills

The Colour-coded Hydrogen Production; An Overview of Environmental Impacts, Economic Implications, Technology Readiness Level and Maritime Skills

by | Jun 8, 2025 | SAJMET, SAJMET V3

The Colour-coded Hydrogen Production; An Overview of Environmental Impacts,
Economic Implications, Technology Readiness Level and Maritime Skills

Author: Thandeka Tembe

ISSN: 2790-783X
Affiliations: Research Associate, South African International Maritime Institute
Source: South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 3 Issue 1, p. 78-101
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2024/i1a7

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Thandeka Tembe
The Colour-coded Hydrogen Production: An Overview of Environmental Impacts, Economic Implications, Technology Readiness Level and Maritime Skills
South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 3 Issue 1, p. 78-101 https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2024/i1a7

Abstract

Decarbonisation is central to addressing hard-to-abate industries, with the hydrogen economy emerging as a main solution. Currently, hydrogen production predominantly comes from a fossil fuel base, using steam methane reforming (SMR), coal gasification and natural gas responding to the conventional colours of hydrogen (grey, black and brown hydrogen), each with a significant environmental footprint. The growing interest in hydrogen production has led to further research into existing and alternative hydrogen production methods, giving rise to a spectrum of hydrogen colours. Darker colours are typically associated with fossil fuels, whereas lighter colours, particularly green derived from renewable energy sources, are considered cleaner alternatives. Additionally, hydrogen production processes include methane pyrolysis and thermolysis/thermochemical, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between the different colours of hydrogen. The study provides an overview of the 10 hydrogen colours, detailing their production process, sources of energy and the four environmental impacts focusing on eutrophication, global warming potential (GWP), acidification and resource depletion. Furthermore, the study examines the technology readiness levels (TRLs) and the cost of hydrogen production in South Africa. The results indicate that sustainable hydrogen production methods, such as green hydrogen, cost more than the conventional alternatives. Conventional hydrogen colours have reached full technology maturity (TRL 9), whereas the newer technologies remain in their infancy. Additionally, conventional hydrogen production methods exhibit higher environmental impacts compared to more sustainable hydrogen alternatives. In addition, the study highlights the need for further skills development to support the integration of alternative fuels, particularly the various colours of hydrogen, within maritime sector applications.

The Colour-coded Hydrogen Production; An Overview of Environmental Impacts, Economic Implications, Technology Readiness Level and Maritime Skills

Assessment of Digital Competencies in South African Maritime Education and Training Institutions: A Study of Evaluation Methods for Future Seafarers

by | Jun 8, 2025 | SAJMET, SAJMET V3

Assessment of Digital Competencies in South African Maritime Education and Training Institutions: A Study of Evaluation Methods for Future Seafarers

Author: Dineo Cleo Mke

ISSN: 2790-783X
Affiliations: MSc in Maritime Affairs Graduate (2024), World Maritime University, Malmö, Sweden; South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA),
South Africa
Source: South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 3 Issue 1, p. 103-120
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2024/i1a8

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Dineo Cleo Mke
Assessment of Digital Competencies in South African Maritime Education and Training Institutions: A Study of Evaluation Methods for Future Seafarers
South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 3 Issue 1, p. 103-120 https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2024/i1a8

Abstract

The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) and the Covid-19 pandemic have significantly impacted the global maritime industry, requiring maritime education and training (MET) institutions to adapt to new digital competencies. While 4IR created awareness of digital competencies as a key to drive digitalisation, the Covid-19 pandemic ‘forced’ us to adapt to new situations. The rapid changes in the maritime industry, driven by technological advancements, are resulting in future seafarers requiring digital competencies, and South African MET institutions are faced with delivering seafarer training for students entering this environment. The study aimed to identify the skills required for seafarers in the digital era and to evaluate the preparedness levels of MET institutions to address this need in courses that offer such skills in the context of South Africa. Best practices in assessing digital competencies in South African MET institutions and identify gaps in current practices were also investigated. The study explored the alignment of identified critical digital competencies with the constructs of the various evaluation methods used to assess these competencies. A qualitative research methodology was employed, using a phenomenological approach to examine the experiences of South African MET professionals regarding digital competency assessment practices. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven representatives from MET institutions, encompassing managerial and operational levels. The findings highlight the need for improved guidelines, industry collaboration and staff development to address skills shortages and to align with global standards. Enhanced frameworks and continuous updates are essential to equip seafarers with the technical proficiency required for the rapidly digitalizing maritime industry, ensuring their readiness to navigate evolving technological and operational landscapes. The study concludes by emphasising the need for standardised competency frameworks, updated curricula, enhanced simulators and international collaborations to align MET institutions to global standards.

The Colour-coded Hydrogen Production; An Overview of Environmental Impacts, Economic Implications, Technology Readiness Level and Maritime Skills

Lack of small business participation (small fishing companies SIC Code 13100) in the Transport Education Training Authority-Supported Schemes

by | Jan 17, 2024 | SAJMET, SAJMET V2

Lack of small business participation (small fishing companies SIC Code 13100) in the Transport Education Training Authority-Supported Schemes

Author: Malcolm Alexander

ISSN: 2790-783X
Affiliations: ETD Practitioner (Maritime), Transport Education Training Authority
Source: South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 2 Issue 1, p. 1-24
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2023/i1a1

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Alexander, M
Lack of small business participation (small fishing companies SIC Code 13100) in the Transport Education Training Authority-Supported Schemes
South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 2 Issue 1, p. 1-24 https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2023/i1a1

Abstract

The study focusses on the transport sector, where company participation level is measured at approximately 20% of levy paying enterprises, and this level is mostly based on relatively high levels of participation from large and medium-sized companies. The study explores the relationship between Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and the companies within the sectors they are mandated to serve by researching the Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) maritime subsector. The research focus is on small companies and the focus is specifically on the low rate of participation of smaller entities in the skills development landscape. The consequences of the lack of participation are investigated and the study concludes that the SETA’s ability to effectively research its sector skills, as well as the SETAs ability to provide effective skills planning in support of the national agenda, are both negatively affected by current levels of poor participation. The research was conducted on small fishing companies registered with TETA, in order to determine the reasons for low participation in the government’s mandatory grant scheme. The research is survey-based across participating and non-participating small companies. In addition, it is proposed that the elements contained herein are transferable to other subsectors of the transport economy (e.g. air, road and rail), and to the multitude of other SETAs that have small companies registered with them. Succinctly, there is no financial incentive to a small company to participate, the SETAs should consider incentives schemes to increase participation that is project-based and allows for subsidised training. The value of an improved Sector Skills Plan (SSP) that matches the skills needs of the sector increases the likelihood of projects having a meaningful impact on the sector and reduces fruitless and wasteful expenditure in the sector. The small business environment has huge potential to assist in skills development, a skilled workforce, improved productivity and reducing unemployment. The findings and solutions are important tools for taking the maritime development agenda forward.

The Colour-coded Hydrogen Production; An Overview of Environmental Impacts, Economic Implications, Technology Readiness Level and Maritime Skills

Modern shipping needs to be cybersecure: A South African perspective

by | Jan 17, 2024 | SAJMET, SAJMET V2

Modern shipping needs to be cybersecure: A South African perspective

Authors: Rossouw von Solms and Suné von Solms

ISSN: 2790-783X
Affiliations: Emeritus Professor, Centre for Research in Information and Cyber Security (CRICS), School of Information Technology, Nelson Mandela University; South African International Maritime Institute; Head of Department, School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Science, University of Johannesburg; South African international Maritime Institute; Head of Department, School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Science, University of Johannesburg; South African international Maritime Institute
Source: South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 2 Issue 1, p. 25-34
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2023/i1a2

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von Solms, R and von Solms, S
Modern shipping needs to be cybersecure: A South African perspective
South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 2 Issue 1, p. 25-34 https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2023/i1a2

Abstract

The traditional standalone operational technology systems that control multiple mechanical systems on board a ship get increasingly integrated with modern information and communications technology (ICT)-related systems. These ICT systems that continuously become interconnected with operational technologies and systems include the Internet-of-Things (IoT), autonomous technologies and the internet with adequate bandwidth etc. The IoT typically employs numerous sensors and captures vast amounts of data, which is processed, transmitted and turned into trusted intelligence to the advantage of all parties involved. Furthermore, modern navigational systems utilise global positioning systems (GPS), radar, sonar and computerised maps. These are used in conjunction with modern communication systems to communicate related data used for accurate navigation. In addition, autonomous technologies are highly dependent on accurate data communicated to them. Thus, it is clear that data is rightly termed ‘the new gold’ in the shipping industry. On the other hand, the maritime industry, like most other industries, is highly vulnerable to cybersecurity attack. As more data is captured, processed and communicated for the more critical shipping activities, the more vulnerable the industry will become to modern cybersecurity threats. Therefore, the interfaces between sensors, devices and different technologies, and the communication of captured data need to be properly secured. Furthermore, many of the shipping industry staff working with technologies where data are captured and communicated need to be educated on how to assist in securing this data. This paper will emphasise the continued use of ICTrelated systems in the shipping industry, and how this digitalisation and smart use of ICT solutions will benefit the maritime industry. In light of this, the purpose of this paper is to highlight the continued vulnerabilities to modern cybersecurity threats, and to discuss some solutions to securing these technologies towards securing the industry as a whole. The paper will also address aspects of educating maritime staff in technology-related areas ranging from the ICT- and cybersecurity-related topics that need to be included in maritime curricula, on the more formal side, to making all staff members more cybersecurity aware, on the more informal side.

The Colour-coded Hydrogen Production; An Overview of Environmental Impacts, Economic Implications, Technology Readiness Level and Maritime Skills

Maritime skills development in KwaZulu-Natal: 2022

by | Jan 17, 2024 | SAJMET, SAJMET V2

Maritime skills development in KwaZulu-Natal: 2022

Authors: Leticia A Grimett and Sihle Mzileni

ISSN: 2790-783X
Affiliations: Honorary Research Fellow at the University of KwaZulu-Natal School of Law, South African International Maritime Institute
Source: South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 2 Issue 1, p. 35-56
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2023/i1a3

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Grimett, L A and Mzileni, S
Maritime skills development in KwaZulu-Natal: 2022
South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 2 Issue 1, p. 35-56 https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2023/i1a3

Abstract

The Operation Phakisa: Oceans Economy mandate, in line with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals, calls for the extension of the benefits of maritime sector development to disadvantaged rural communities. This mandate can only be realised if the rural communities can actively partake in the sector. Research has shown that the coastal rural communities were unaware of the maritime sector, and few were prepared to partake in the maritime value chain. This maritime skills audit sought to determine the skills required by the maritime sector and the ability of the rural community to provide them. The research also sought to determine the geographical and educational gaps within the sector. Initially, the intention of the research was, to discover specific areas where skills shortages and education gaps were found. While the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act proved to be a limiting factor, the study still uncovered the structural issues affecting the education and training of rural learners. The maritime sector is primarily urban. Maritime training is also done within the urban sectors. While it should be a simple matter of the rural learners moving to urban centres to study, the deficiencies in the education of the rural populations have created a major systemic bottleneck. This paper provides the results of the maritime business audit, together with the issues facing the rural education sector and the obstacles they present.

The Colour-coded Hydrogen Production; An Overview of Environmental Impacts, Economic Implications, Technology Readiness Level and Maritime Skills

Smart Ports: Is SADC positioned for Transition?

by | Jan 17, 2024 | SAJMET, SAJMET V2

Smart Ports: Is SADC positioned for Transition?

Author: Leticia A Grimett

ISSN: 2790-783X
Affiliations: Honorary Research Fellow at the University of KwaZulu-Natal School of Law, South African International Maritime Institute
Source: South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 2 Issue 1, p. 57-70
https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2023/i1a4

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Grimett, L A
Smart Ports: Is SADC positioned for Transition?
South African Journal of Maritime Education and Training, Volume 2 Issue 1, p. 57-70 https://doi.org/10.47348/SAJMET/2023/i1a4

Abstract

Whereas international trade was previously the preserve of organised business, the digital revolution and the increased popularity of online purchases on the internet has meant that international trade is now easily accessible at an individual level. At both a domestic and international level, the Covid-19 crisis amplified the pressure placed on businesses and consumers to adopt digital technologies, and this has been catalytic in moving the public towards greater reliance on online transactions and a movement away from traditional purchasing practices. Increased global trade at an individual level has put greater pressure on global supply chains, with every link in the supply chain being called upon to perform more effectively and efficiently. Ports, as gates of entry into domestic markets and transshipment routes, have been under increased pressure to conform to the needs of the international trading community. Greater trading volumes have put ports at risk of higher levels of crime by international and domestic criminal syndicates. The changing environmental landscape has meant that ships are being transformed for compliance purposes. Increased concern about water quality and impacts on sensitive habitats has put additional pressure on port authorities. These pressures have led to the creation of smart ports, which are fully automated, taking advantage of the latest technologies, blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI), and state of the art monitoring software and processes, while adhering to and promoting compliance with both the latest environmental protocols and the United Nations (UN) 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this contribution to the conference, the discussion centres on the challenges facing ports in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, in the light of the latest global developments. Smart ports and the drivers towards greater changes are discussed and analysed. Finally, the state of ports in the SADC region are evaluated in the light of the latest global developments in order to determine whether our ports are prepared to transition and changes that can be made to facilitate the process.