Digital twin scheme aims to drive shipping to zero emissions

A scheme which aims to transform the maritime industry by helping improve efficiency and cut carbon emissions has been launched. The project, Digital Twin for Green Shipping, aims to significantly contribute towards achieving 55 per cent CO2 emissions’ reduction from waterborne transport by 2030, in line with the ultimate target of zero emissions by 2050.

The idea is to create realistic digital representations of ships, which are then tested and validated in four living labs, looking at navigation/route, machinery and hull optimisation, through to energy management. Improvements of the ships’/transport systems’ efficiency will be investigated via ‘just in time’ arrival implementation.

“We are delighted to have won funding through the European Commission’s Green Deal scheme,” says Inlecom director, Takis Katsoulakos. “This funding has enabled us to roll out an innovative digital twin technology research and development programme with our partners to help ensure the shipping industry can supercharge its journey to zero emissions.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the European industry and the research & academic communities to work together to achieve the goal of zero-emission shipping, while also addressing climate change, air pollution from ships, as well as the deterioration of waters and oceans.”

The living lab concept is based on a co-creation approach which will take ships through their full lifecycle, from planning to design, construction, operation, retrofitting, and decommissioning – all while looking to ensure green decision-making options are pursued when upgrading existing ships and building new ones.

The project involves 21 partners covering maritime transport industry specialists and associations, shipping companies, shipping digital twin providers, universities and research centres from Italy, Belgium, France, Ireland, Cyprus, Spain, the Netherlands, Poland and Greece.