In shipping, environmental targets dominate ESG conversations with decarbonisation, alternative fuels and emissions reduction taking centre stage. However, the social element of ESG is equally important and increasingly relevant to the sector’s long-term resilience.

Shipping depends on people. Seafarers, shore-based teams, port workers, contractors and the wider communities connected to global trade. Putting the “S” in ESG means creating safer, fairer and more inclusive working environments across this ecosystem. It includes protecting crew welfare, supporting mental health, tackling fatigue, ensuring fair pay and improving access to training and career development.

The sector also faces a pressing skills challenge. As vessels, fuels and technologies evolve, shipping companies need to invest in reskilling and attracting the next generation of maritime professionals. Building more diverse teams, including improving gender representation and opening opportunities to people from a wider range of backgrounds, will be essential.

Strong social practices are not simply a compliance exercise. They can improve retention, reduce operational risk, strengthen safety culture and support business performance. They also help organisations meet the expectations of customers, investors, regulators and employees.

For shipping to be truly sustainable, its ESG strategy must place people alongside planet and profit. The “S” is not secondary; it is fundamental to the future of the industry.