ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ
ESG Shipping Awards 2025 INTERNATIONAL: Recognizing Global Maritime Leaders in Sustainability
The ESG Shipping Awards INTERNATIONAL 2025 Ceremony & Gala Dinner illuminated the maritime world’s unwavering commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) excellence, as over 400 global maritime guests gathered in Athens to honor outstanding achievements shaping the sustainable future of global shipping.
Held under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy and the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the prestigious event welcomed a lineup of international stakeholders, institutional figures, and industry champions. Distinguished guests included Mr. Stefanos Gkikas, Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Mr. Dimitris Tsiodras representing the European Parliament Committee on the Environment, Mr. Tryfon Kontizas, Commandant of the Hellenic Coast Guard -Vice Admiral Hellenic Coast Guard, Mr. Charalampos Simantonis, President of the Hellenic Shortsea Shipowners Association – European Shortsea Network, Mr. George Alexandratos president of Hellenic Chamber of Shipping and many others.
Opening the evening, the organizers, Mrs. Helena Athoussaki and Mrs. Katerina Stathopoulou,
highlighted the transformational power of ESG in the maritime sector, highlighting the industry’s
shift from compliance to leadership, and the importance of recognizing not only corporate strategy
but also the people and actions driving real change.
“What makes this initiative particularly special is that it was born here in Greece — a nation with
a profound maritime heritage and an unwavering commitment to the future of global seaborne
trade. The long-standing global leadership of Greek shipping is no coincidence. It reflects a deeprooted dedication to quality, responsibility, and progress. Today, the sustainable development of
maritime transport and the protection of the environment remain top priorities for the Greek
government.” said Mr. Stefanos Gkikas, Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy,
during his opening speech.
“Shipping has always been a sector of responsibility, resilience, and respect long before ESG
became a global framework. But today, ESG is no longer optional; it is a necessity, a standard, and
most importantly, an opportunity to modernize. Let’s ensure it remains practical, balanced and a
true catalyst for change.” emphasized Mr. George Alexandratos, President of the Hellenic
Chamber of Shipping.
The evening’s keynote was delivered by Mr. Björn van Roye, Head of Global Economic Modelling at Bloomberg Economics, who spoke on the shifting global power landscape, redefining geo-economic relations, and the transformation of traditional trade routes— underlining the urgent need for adaptability, resilience and responsible leadership in maritime operations.
Among the most anticipated moments of the event was the presentation of the ESG Motivational
Leadership Award to Mrs. Marily Frangista, Managing Director of Franco Compania Naviera S.A., and Mrs. Semiramis Paliou, CEO of Diana Shipping Inc. and Chairperson of HELMEPA & INTERMEPA. Both were honored for their longstanding contribution and inspirational leadership in the maritime sector.
“Leadership is about shaping human behavior and that means listening. As the older generation in business and shipping, we have a responsibility to learn from the younger voices rising within our industry. Their ideas deserve not only our attention but also recognition” said Mrs. Frangista during her acceptance.
“I’m deeply honored by this award. I find my inspiration and my motivation in my people, my colleagues and the seafarers who sail across the seas with passion and dedication. So, this award is as much theirs as it is mine.” added Mrs. Paliou. One of the most emotional moments of the evening was the heartfelt testimonial by Captain Panagiotis Tsakos, reflecting on the true meaning of ESG in shipping: “As a captain of an older generation, I must admit that terms like ESG were not part of our vocabulary. In Greek shipping, for decades, if not centuries, we have lived by three simple principles: do your work to the best of your ability, always honor your word and take care of your people and your community. We believe that this is what these awards are truly about!”
