Nuclear-Powered Shipping: UN & Greek Shipowners Discuss Future?
- Rafael Mariano Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), met with Greek shipowners Thursday to discuss using nuclear power in global goods transportation.
- The UN agency believes this move could significantly reduce global emissions, enhance efficiency in the shipping industry, and potentially lower food prices.
- In Athens, Grossi conferred with Foreign Affairs Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, Progress Minister takis Theodorikakos, and leaders from the Union of Greek Shipowners.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is pushing for nuclear power in global shipping, a move discussed with Greek shipowners aiming to slash emissions and boost efficiency, according to reports. The ATLAS initiative, a plan for safe nuclear reactors on commercial vessels, is at the heart of these discussions, promising a revolution in the maritime sector. The UN agency believes adoption could slash emissions and even affect food prices. Rafael Mariano Grossi is actively engaging with European shipping leaders. News Directory 3 might soon see these discussions lead to innovative solutions. Will Greece, a major player in global shipping, embrace this nuclear future? Discover what’s next in this groundbreaking initiative.
UN Agency Promotes Nuclear Power for Global Shipping
Updated May 29, 2025
Rafael Mariano Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), met with Greek shipowners Thursday to discuss using nuclear power in global goods transportation. The initiative, known as ATLAS—Atomic Technology Licensed for Applications at Sea—seeks to establish safety regulations for nuclear reactors on commercial ships.
The UN agency believes this move could significantly reduce global emissions, enhance efficiency in the shipping industry, and potentially lower food prices. Grossi has been actively engaging with European shipping leaders to garner support for the ATLAS initiative, promoting nuclear power as a viable option for the maritime sector.
In Athens, Grossi conferred with Foreign Affairs Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, Progress Minister takis Theodorikakos, and leaders from the Union of Greek Shipowners. Thes discussions centered on the potential benefits and challenges of adopting nuclear propulsion for commercial fleets.
“We are at an vital moment for nuclear science and technology, opening new opportunities for greece—such as the IAEA’s ATLAS initiative for the maritime sector,” Grossi stated in a recent online post, highlighting the potential for Greece to play a key role in this emerging field.
currently, nuclear propulsion is primarily used by advanced naval forces to power submarines and aircraft carriers. Broader adoption in the civilian sector faces hurdles, including high investment costs, the need for international regulations, and safety concerns. Critics also point to risks associated with terrorism, piracy, and geopolitical instability.
Greece is a leading ship-owning nation, controlling a large share of the world’s commercial fleet. This makes their involvement crucial for the success of the IAEA’s initiative to introduce nuclear power to the shipping industry.
What’s next
The IAEA plans to continue working with international partners to develop comprehensive regulations and address safety concerns related to nuclear-powered commercial ships. Further discussions with shipping industry leaders and government officials are expected in the coming months.