The network of vessels, ports, and operators that enable the global supply chain have matured during a period of relative stability leading to a truly global interconnected economy.  

However, in recent years, growing stressors; from the global pandemic, to geopolitical tensions in Europe and the Middle East, to climate change – are increasing the threats to and stability of global shipping. As the frequency and severity of disruptions compound, digital twins coupled with AI promise the capability to evaluate scenarios in interconnected complex systems.

An ocean digital twin can interface with other emerging technologies in the shipping sector such as digital twins of ports and vessels. In GSTS’ solution, using best-in-class modeling of the ocean environment and associated risks, virtual replicas of real-world ocean environments, vessels, maritime infrastructure, and scenarios are developed. These digital replicas collectively create an ocean digital twin, enabling users to simulate various environmental scenarios and assess the impact on shipping and supply chains in real time. By combining a digital twin framework with rich vessel tracking and ocean environment data, the user can identify vulnerabilities and optimize routes and operations to mitigate risks for maritime stakeholders. The continuous refinement process, informed by new data and models, ensures that our digital twin models remain accurate and effective, enhancing resilience and decision-making across maritime logistics. 

Key Benefits of Digital Twins in the maritime sector include:

• Predictive Maintenance: enable predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and optimizing asset performance  

• Environmental Impact Assessment: support evaluations of the environmental impact of maritime activities, aiding in sustainability efforts 

• Port Optimisation: through simulation modeling and analysis, digital twins help optimize the performance of port operations with regards to stressors and shocks 

• Sustainable Shipping Practices: contribute to the development of green corridors, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly shipping practices 

• Ecosystem Monitoring: aid in monitoring and assessing the impact of maritime activities on the ocean environment, supporting conservation efforts 

• Regulatory Initiatives: supporting regulatory initiatives, digital twins help in implementing measures for minimizing environmental impact and ensuring ocean health  

• Interconnected Operations: seamless integration of supply chain processes across multiple stakeholders leads to enhanced operational efficiency and transparency 

• Collaborative Decision-Making: integrating facilitate collaborating decision-making, enabling faster responses to market dynamics and operational challenges 

• Data Sharing and Visibility: improved data sharing and visibility in integrated supply chain processes enhance coordination and responsiveness