MCA Publishes First Areas of Research Interest to Guide Maritime Innovation

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has published a list of Areas of Research Interest (ARI), outlining the issues, questions, and investigations to improve its regulatory mission and provide guidance on emerging technologies. 

Announced on 17th November 2025, the initiative is designed to strengthen collaboration between maritime researchers, businesses, and government, creating a knowledge network on key trends such as alternative fuels, maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS), and the safety, welfare and skills of seafarers.

The non-exhaustive scope of the ARI covers topics including decarbonisation, counter-pollution, digital transformation, vessel construction, incident response, trade, seafarers and associated professions, and regulatory improvement.

“It’s an exciting time for the maritime world as developing technology brings opportunities and changes that require nimble, well-informed responses in regulation, research and commercialisation,” said Director of UK Customer Maritime Services, Lars Lippuner. 

“By publishing our Areas of Research Interest we intend to offer not just guidance on direction, but to establish an ongoing conversation across the UK’s maritime industry. The aim is to expand expertise and commercial advantage to grow jobs and the economy”.

The MCA’s maritime-centred ARI complements the Department for Transport’s own ARI, both of which sit within the government’s wider database of ARIs developed since 2017. The MCA confirmed that its ARI will be revised every two years to ensure the list remains at the cutting edge of maritime technology and practice.

The initiative, announced by the MCA in September, will be overseen by the UK Maritime Innovation Hub, and is scheduled to launch in April 2026.

The MCA highlighted examples of previous projects with universities that illustrate the type of work the ARI will help structure. These include:

• A Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Southampton, which has supported research into emissions reduction and autonomy. 
• Work with University College London mapping the production, supply, and infrastructure of alternative fuels to support decarbonisation of UK shipping.
• Partnership with the University of Plymouth on testing marine autonomous systems.

By publishing its ARI, the MCA aims to provide clarity for researchers and industry on the areas where evidence and innovation are most needed. 

The initiative is expected to encourage investment in research, foster collaboration between academia and industry, and ultimately strengthen the UK’s maritime sector by aligning regulatory priorities with emerging opportunities.

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