Decarbonization of shipping: regulations and solutions

Various initiatives have emerged that encourage decarbonization in the shipping industry. Such enablers include new energy solutions like alternative fuels, just-in-time strategies, and carbon pricing regulations. However the variety and complexity of solutions and perspectives can cause confusion among stakeholders. Without clearly identifying what actions need to be taken in specific areas, it will be difficult to enact systemic changes and achieve decarbonization goals.

The directions of strategies for decarbonization of vessels sea is different for strategies involving ports. When considering solutions for decarbonization at sea, improving measures such as weather routing, slow steaming, and voyage optimization are crucial. On the other hand, solutions involving ports will focus on the port call processes and what happens in and around ports and terminals. Regardless of what stakeholders aim to achieve, extensive strategic thinking supported by digital technology will be necessary to realize the potential of decarbonization solutions.

Decarbonization at sea

To optimize voyages, fleet management systems and voyage optimization softwares have been developed. Fleet management systems can be used to monitor and optimize a ship’s performance in real-time, allowing for more efficient use of fuel and reduced emissions. Voyage optimization softwares uses advanced analytics and weather forecasting to optimize a ship’s route, speed, and cargo load, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

Alongside optimization solutions, digital tools can also be used to monitor and report a ship’s emissions, allowing for more accurate measurement and reporting of emissions, which can be used to ensure compliance and set targets for fleets and vessels in terms of GHG emissions.

Predictive maintenance is another digital solution that could be helpful in optimizing vessel activities and thus also reducing its carbon footprint. This is the process of using data to predict when a part or system on a ship will fail, so that it can be repaired or replaced before it causes an issue. This allows for more efficient use of resources and can reduce emissions by minimizing downtime and reducing the need for unnecessary repairs.

Autonomous ships also have the potential to reduce emissions through improved navigation and collision avoidance, as well as more efficient use of fuel and other resources. The development of autonomous shipping is currently progressing quite rapidly. Although the lack of standardization and strict safety standards remain a challenge for the implementation of autonomous ships, there is still promising potential for the future.

Decarbonization in ports

For port actors, optimizing the port call process is the primary goal. When port activities are optimized, carbon footprint can be reduced and decarbonization will be more easily achieved.

Port call optimization solutions can use advanced analytics and data from various sources such as weather, traffic, and vessel schedules to optimize the planning and scheduling for port calls. By building a digital twin that reflects port events in real-time, port actors will have the context to make the best decisions, ensuring efficiency and minimizing environmental impact.

Remote monitoring and control systems can also be set up to monitor and control ship systems from a remote location, reducing the need for on-board crew to attend to routine tasks during port calls. Along with remote systems, port community systems can also be developed as support. These are digital platforms that connect all stakeholders in a port ecosystem, such as shipping lines, terminal operators, customs, and logistics service providers. They can be used to optimize the flow of information and cargo, reducing emissions from the movement of goods and people.

Predictive capability and visibility is also important in achieving optimization goals and reducing carbon footprint. Predictive analytics can be used to optimize the operations of ports and terminals, support decision making, and improve future planning for port actors. 

Investing in digital infrastructure is also necessary to ensure smooth implementation of the aforementioned solutions. IoT and sensor-based systems can be used to track and monitor the movement of goods and equipment within ports, as well as provide accurate and real-time data. With quality data and a powerful cloud computing platform, innovative solutions can be more easily enacted.