IAEA explores nuclear power for global shipping with Greek shipowners

On Thursday, May 29, 2025, Rafael Mariano Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), held discussions in Athens, Greece, with Greek shipowners and government ministers. This meeting was centered around the IAEA's initiative to explore the use of nuclear power in commercial maritime transportation. The organization aims to develop a regulatory and safety framework for deploying nuclear reactors on ships, which directly aligns with their commitment to sustainability in global shipping. Grossi emphasized the importance of this initiative, known as ATLAS – Atomic Technology Licensed for Applications at Sea, during his dialogue with Greece's ministers of foreign affairs and development, Giorgos Gerapetritis and Takis Theodorikakos, alongside the leadership of the Union of Greek Shipowners. The discussions are part of a broader effort to reduce global emissions from the shipping industry, enhance efficiency, and subsequently lower food prices by improving cargo transportation methods. Currently, the application of nuclear propulsion is governed mainly by military operations for naval forces, with civilian use remaining limited due to factors such as high initial investment costs, the need for stringent international regulations, and safety concerns surrounding nuclear technology. Additionally, opponents raise concerns about potential risks tied to piracy, terrorism, and escalating geopolitical tensions in maritime zones. Greece is noted as one of the world's principal ship-owning nations and controls a significant portion of the global commercial fleet. This positions the nation strategically at the forefront of discussions regarding future advancements in shipping methodologies. The IAEA's initiative thus opens potential prospects not only for the Greek shipping sector but also for the international community as it looks for innovative solutions to significant environmental issues. Grossi's engagement with Greek shipowners underscores the urgency of modernizing shipping operations to mitigate the industry's carbon footprint and navigate the dangerous waters of modern global trade. As the initiative progresses, it may pave the way for more extensive research and development in nuclear technologies tailored to maritime applications, potentially moving towards a new era of maritime transport. It remains essential to balance technological advancement with safety practices, securing stakeholder confidence, and aligning worldwide regulations to foster a collaborative approach in our changing environmental landscape.