The maritime sector is one of the fundamental pillars of global trade and it has been adapting to the environmental challenges of our time. Decarbonization is a priority and, in order to achieve sustainability goals, it is essential to implement good practices that reduce emissions and promote more efficient resource management. In this article, we explore some of the innovative strategies being adopted by industry for a greener, more sustainable future!
Alternative fuels
Replacing fossil fuels with cleaner alternatives, such as LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas), green hydrogen and biofuels, has been one of the most promising strategies. These options not only reduce CO2 emissions, but also help to reduce other pollutants, making maritime operations more environmentally friendly.
Energy efficiency
It is essential to adopt technologies that allow for the optimization of propulsion systems and the reduction of navigation speed, in order to save fuel and reduce emissions. This practice, combined with the use of energy monitoring systems, makes navigation more efficient and sustainable.
Renewable energy integration
More and more ships are incorporating renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels and wind energy systems. In addition, many ports have invested in infrastructure that provides electricity from clean sources, allowing ships to turn off their engines and use renewable energy while at berth.
Digitalization and Smart Shipping
Digitalization has revolutionized the shipping industry. Technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data and Artificial Intelligence make it possible to monitor ship performance in real time, optimizing routes, reducing costs and improving safety. Communication between ships and ports has also become more fluid and efficient, contributing to smarter operations.
Carbon markets
Emissions Trading Systems (ETS) encourage emissions reduction, by allowing companies that reduce their emissions to sell credits to others that need additional permits. This approach promotes innovation and investment in cleaner and more sustainable technologies.
Infrastructure innovation and Green Ports
Green ports are one of the great recent innovations. With more efficient and sustainable infrastructures, these ports integrate solutions such as Onshore Power Supply, allowing ships to turn off their engines when docked and reducing emissions and noise.
Zero Emission Hydrofoil and Advanced Technology
One of the most recent advances was the testing of the 10-meter prototype of MobyFly, a zero-emission hydrofoil boat. The tests on the Douro River and in the Atlantic, as part of the FLYPASS project, integrate advanced technologies such as INESC-TEC’s autodocking system, batteries from Corvus Energy and production skills from the Catana Portugal group. These tests not only perfect the integration of technologies, but also show the potential of automatic foiling systems and state-of-the-art batteries for efficient mobility and optimized operations.
The Role of the Zero Carbon Naval Roadmap (RNCZ)
The Zero Carbon Naval Roadmap (RNCZ) is working collaboratively to promote decarbonization in the naval sector. So far, two major events have been held, attended by key players in the sector. In the Launch Webinar (June 26) and the Consultation Workshop (September 26), stakeholders discussed the challenges and opportunities for a more sustainable future in shipping. These events promoted interaction, the exchange of ideas and discussion on best practices to reduce the environmental footprint of maritime operations. We will continue to drive this discussions forward and involve all stakeholders in building a more sustainable shipping sector. Stay tuned for more events and activities!
