Ultra-efficient ships built with innovative, lightweight materials using sustainable manufacturing processes are taking to the seas thanks to an EU-funded project that promises to boost the competitiveness of the European maritime industry - and benefit the environment.
EU-funded researchers are creating an information-sharing system for maritime surveillance authorities that will improve coordination on threats such as international terrorism and cross-border pollution at sea, contributing to a safer, cleaner Europe.
The EU-funded SEDNA project is developing ways to improve the design, operation, navigation and anti-icing features of ships traversing the harsh Arctic region. SEDNA's innovations could help protect lives, safeguard the region's unique natural environment, and open more competitive routes for Europe's shippers.
Inspired by aviation practices in 'resilience engineering', an award-winning EU-funded project has developed technology transfer methodology, a 'Procedure Improvement System', aviation style checklists, training modules and a 'Resilience Assessment Tool' to boost safety and crew preparedness in the maritime sector.
It's sleek. It's fast. It's green, and that's not just the colour of the hull. EU-funded researchers have developed an award-winning battery electric commuter ferry that can reach up to 30 knots - an impressive speed, which many had deemed unattainable for such a vessel.
One of the world's most environmentally friendly passenger ships is harnessing the wind for propulsion, cutting CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, thanks to the installation of an innovative rotor sail developed by an EU-funded project.
An EU-funded project is creating a global online communication platform as well as digital standards for weather reports, nautical charts and other aids to improve communications and safety at sea.
EU-funded researchers have designed an online planner to help shipping operators reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The planner provides an optimum speed that takes account of likely weather and sea conditions as well as possible delays at ports.
Autonomous cargo ships could provide a safer, greener and more cost efficient means of moving goods around the world. And while further development is needed, they are feasible, say EU-funded researchers.
