ABS forms environment, vessel performance group

   Classification society ABS has formed an operational and environmental performance department.
   “The shipping industry continues to deal with a weak and challenging market. Vessels and assets have to be designed and operated to achieve optimal performance throughout their entire life cycle,” said ABS President and Chief Executive Officer Christopher J. Wiernicki, in a statement.
   “ABS recognizes that designers, builders, owners and operators in the marine and offshore industries face a challenging combination of increasing regulatory requirements and operational cost pressures. This department is a commitment to our clients that we will assist them in meeting these challenges,” he added.
   In particular, the department will serve as a resource for clients needing to assess the energy efficiency and fuel consumption of new and existing vessel designs. It will also support the ongoing efforts of the existing ABS Environmental Solutions Group to address changing requirements for ballast water, bio-fouling and air emissions, as well as emerging issues surrounding LNG as fuel.
   Howard Fireman, vice president of operational and environmental performance, will lead the new department.