ASA has a research and development program that aims to find practical solutions to some of the environmental challenges facing the Australian Shipping Industry.

Biofouling research: ASA leading the way in the development of practical solutions to biofouling on commercial vessels. Members of ASA participate in ongoing research efforts to enhance the application of available antifouling technology for the benefit of ship operations and the prevention of the spread of marine pests. ASA and its member companies have been instrumental in the production of guidelines for the prevention of biofouling on commercial ships. An initiative likely to form the basis of the development of an international measure to manage the marine pest risk associated with biofouling.

Greenhouse gas indexing: ASA provides a greenhouse gas indexing service to its members, providing member companies with a better understanding of the greenhouse gas efficiency of their vessels.