Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Shell Ecomarathon in Indonesia

What Is the Shell Ecomarathon?

The Shell Ecomarathon is a regional sustainability competition that challenges university students to design low‑carbon, high‑efficiency marine solutions. In its 2025 edition, Indonesia hosts the event for the first time, inviting teams from across Southeast Asia to showcase innovations that could reshape the maritime sector.

Organized by Shell in partnership with local academic institutions, the marathon blends engineering, environmental science, and entrepreneurship. Participants are judged on technical merit, real‑world applicability, and the potential to reduce greenhouse‑gas emissions.

Key Dates and Milestones

• Registration opens: 1 May 2025
• Submission deadline for concept papers: 31 July 2025
• Pre‑selection webinars: 15 – 20 August 2025
• Finalist announcement: 5 September 2025
• On‑site competition: 10 – 14 October 2025 in Surabaya

Mark these dates on your calendar early; the application window closes quickly, and the pre‑selection webinars are the only chance to get feedback directly from the judges.

Who Can Apply?

The marathon targets undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled in engineering, marine science, or related fields. Teams must consist of 3–5 members, and at least one member must be an Indonesian citizen or be studying at an Indonesian university.

While the competition welcomes fresh ideas, it also expects participants to have a working prototype or a detailed simulation model. This ensures that the final presentations are grounded in realistic feasibility studies.

How to Register

Registration is handled through the official Shell Ecomarathon portal. After creating an account, teams upload a concise concept note (max 1 200 words) outlining their proposed solution, its expected carbon‑reduction impact, and a rough cost analysis.

Once submitted, the concept note undergoes a two‑stage review: an initial technical screening followed by a sustainability assessment. Successful teams receive a confirmation email with instructions for the pre‑selection webinars.

Competition Structure

During the on‑site event, each finalist presents a 12‑minute pitch, followed by a Q&A with a panel of industry experts. The judging rubric breaks down into three categories:

• Technical Innovation (40%): originality, engineering rigor, and scalability.
• Sustainability Impact (35%): quantified emissions reduction, lifecycle analysis, and alignment with Indonesia’s maritime policy.
• Business Viability (25%): market potential, cost‑effectiveness, and implementation roadmap.

Teams also participate in a hands‑on workshop where they can test components of their prototype on a controlled water tank, allowing judges to see the technology in action.

Prizes and Opportunities

The winning team walks away with a cash prize of USD 25 000, a mentorship package with Shell’s marine technology division, and a potential pilot project funded through the company’s sustainability fund. Runners‑up receive smaller cash awards and access to a network of regional investors.

Beyond monetary rewards, participants gain exposure to industry leaders, a chance to refine their ideas with real‑world data, and a valuable addition to their professional portfolios.

Tips for a Strong Submission

• Start with a clear problem statement. Identify a specific maritime challenge—such as fuel‑inefficient ferry routes or offshore emissions—and explain why it matters.
• Quantify your impact. Use credible data sources to estimate emission reductions, fuel savings, or cost benefits. Numbers speak louder than concepts.
• Show feasibility. Even if your prototype is at the simulation stage, include a realistic development timeline and resource plan.
• Leverage local context. Reference Indonesia’s archipelagic geography, existing port infrastructure, or government incentives for green shipping.
• Practice the pitch. A clear, concise narrative that balances technical depth with storytelling will keep the judges engaged.

What to Expect on the Ground

The Surabaya venue is set beside the harbor, giving teams a direct view of bustling maritime traffic. In addition to the competition, the marathon includes a mini‑expo where startups showcase complementary green technologies—ranging from bio‑fuel processors to autonomous vessel navigation systems.

Networking sessions are scheduled each evening, offering a relaxed environment for participants to discuss collaborations with Shell engineers, local policymakers, and potential investors.

Previous Editions: A Quick Look

The 2023 Shell Ecomarathon in Singapore highlighted a solar‑powered cargo drone that could cut short‑haul emissions by up to 30 %. In 2024, teams in Malaysia introduced a hybrid propulsion system for small fishing vessels, demonstrating a 20 % reduction in diesel use during trials.

These success stories illustrate the marathon’s role as a catalyst for tangible change, not just a theoretical exercise. They also set a benchmark for the 2025 Indonesia edition—teams are encouraged to build on past innovations while tailoring solutions to the local marine environment.

FAQs

Is there a fee to enter the Shell Ecomarathon?

No. Registration, concept note submission, and participation in the on‑site event are all free of charge. However, teams should budget for travel and accommodation if they reach the final round.

Can I join the competition if my university isn’t listed as a partner?

Yes. The marathon is open to any accredited institution in the region, provided the team meets the citizenship or enrollment criteria for at least one member.

What kinds of technologies are most successful?

Solutions that combine proven engineering principles with clear emission‑reduction metrics tend to score highest. Think hybrid propulsion, renewable energy integration, or advanced hull designs that improve fuel efficiency.

Will there be any mentorship before the final event?

Selected teams receive two virtual mentorship sessions with Shell experts after the concept note stage. These sessions focus on refining technical details and strengthening the business case.