Learning objectives |
At the end of the course students will be able
to:
- Analyze and structure strategic and operational challenges
related to sustainability in shipping and maritime logistics,
proposing viable solutions.
- Combine and apply concepts, theories, and methods of strategic
management and economics to create and evaluate sustainable
business models in the shipping industry.
- Develop and articulate relevant strategic choices for
sustainability in shipping.
- Define and critically assess the strategic implications of
emerging sustainability-related technologies in shipping,
incorporating strategic management perspectives.
- Understand and analyze innovation processes in international
shipping, leveraging strategic management tools to foster
sustainable practices.
- Assess complex problems with conflicting objectives in maritime
business, utilizing strategic management tools for effective
decision-making and communication of solutions.
- Critically engage with current academic, policy, and industry
debates in the maritime business.
|
Examination |
Strategic
Management and Sustainability in Maritime
Business:
|
Exam
ECTS |
7,5 |
Examination form |
Home assignment - written product |
Individual or group exam |
Group exam
Please note the rules in the Programme Regulations about
identification of individual contributions. |
Number of people in the group |
2-4 |
Size of written product |
Max. 20 pages |
Assignment type |
Case based assignment |
Release of assignment |
An assigned subject is released in
class |
Duration |
Written product to be submitted on specified date
and time. |
Grading scale |
7-point grading scale |
Examiner(s) |
Internal examiner and second internal
examiner |
Exam period |
Autumn |
Make-up exam/re-exam |
Same examination form as the ordinary exam
|
Description of the exam
procedure
In this group case study assignment, students will work
collaboratively on a real-world business scenario provided in
class. The case study, which is directly aligned with the course
objectives, is designed to challenge students to apply their
knowledge, analyze complex problems, and develop actionable
solutions. The assignment emphasizes teamwork, critical thinking,
and the practical application of theoretical concepts. The case
study will be released a few weeks into the course and a few
exercises in class will be tailored to ensure students know in what
way to approach the
assignment.
|
|
Course content, structure and pedagogical
approach |
This course explores the role of strategic management in
making maritime companies more competitive through sustainability.
Environmental sustainability has become essential across all
shipping sectors, driven by the climate crisis, stricter
regulations, public scrutiny, and a growing focus on ecological
responsibility.
Traditionally, the shipping industry prioritized short-term
profits with minimal focus on social and environmental
responsibilities. However, this is changing as companies
increasingly integrate sustainability into their strategies due to
pressure from regulators, customers, and stakeholders. New
technologies, decarbonization efforts, and social considerations
are reshaping the industry, requiring innovative approaches to meet
regulatory demands and ensure long-term growth.
The course provides advanced insights into the challenges and
opportunities in the shipping industry as it adapts to a rapidly
changing regulatory and economic environment. Students will learn
to balance short-term profitability with long-term sustainability,
make decisions under uncertainty, and develop innovative solutions.
A strong emphasis is placed on equipping students with the skills
to lead transformative change and align business strategies with
the evolving expectations of customers and
stakeholders.
|
Research-based teaching |
CBS’ programmes and teaching are research-based. The following
types of research-based knowledge and research-like activities are
included in this course:
Research-based knowledge
- Classic and basic theory
- Teacher’s own research
Research-like activities
- Analysis
- Discussion, critical reflection, modelling
|
Description of the teaching methods |
The course employs a mix of teaching methods to
create an engaging and interactive learning environment. These
methods include case study analysis, collaborative group
discussions, and lectures that combine traditional frontal teaching
with elements of blended learning. Students are expected to come to
each session well-prepared by completing assigned readings and
analysing cases in advance. Active participation in class
discussions and activities is strongly encouraged, as it fosters a
deeper understanding of the material and enhances critical
thinking, communication, and teamwork skills. |
Feedback during the teaching period |
Feedback will be given in class in group work
based on group discussions and presentations. |
Student workload |
Lecture |
38 hours |
Preparation |
167 hours |
Exam |
48 hours |
|
Expected literature |
Literature will be provided during the course. The following is
an indicative list.
- Acciaro, M. (2014). Real option analysis for environmental
compliance: LNG and emission control areas. Transportation Research
Part D: Transport and Environment, 28, 41-50.
- Acciaro, M. (2022). Sustainable Maritime Business, Lecture
notes.
- Christodoulou, A., & Cullinane, K. (2022). Potential
alternative fuel pathways for compliance with the ‘FuelEU Maritime
Initiative’. Transportation Research Part D: Transport and
Environment, 112, 103492.
- Dirzka, C., & Acciaro, M. (2021). Principal-agent problems
in decarbonizing container shipping: A panel data analysis.
Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, 98,
102948.
- Harlaftis, G., et al. (2012). The World's Key Industry:
History and Economics of International Shipping. Houndmills,
Basingstoke, Hampshire; New York, Palgrave Macmillan.
- Harvard Business School cases (coursepack to be downloaded from
Harvard Business School Publishing prior to first session; detailed
instructions will be provided through CBS Learn).
- Hitt, M. A., et al. (2015). Strategic Management:
Competitiveness & Globalization: Concepts and Cases. Mason,
Ohio, South-Western Cengage Learning.
- Johnson et al. (2017). Exploring Strategy. Text and Cases (11th
Edition). Edinburgh Gate; UK, Pearson.
- Lorange, P. (2009). Shipping Strategy: Innovating for Success.
Cambridge; New York, Cambridge University Press.
- Lun, Y. V., Lai, K. H., Wong, C. W., & Cheng, T. E. (2016).
Green shipping management. New York: Springer.
- Pomaska, L., & Acciaro, M. (2022). Bridging the
Maritime-Hydrogen Cost-Gap: Real options analysis of policy
alternatives. Transportation Research Part D: Transport and
Environment, 107, 103283.
- Psaraftis, H. N., Amboy, P., & Psaraftis. (2019).
Sustainable shipping. Berlin: Springer International
Publishing.
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