ECMAR news from January 2010

Pulse Tidal receives €8m grant

Pulse has received a grant from the European Commission's Framework programme to further develop its system whereby tidal streams move horizontal blades up and down to drive a generator (SSA Express Newsletter - Issue 21, 21Ddecember 2009 - http://www.ssa.org.uk/story/show/281

Shipping could by 2030 cut emissions by 30%, at zero cost

DNV Maritime has presented the groundbreaking results of a new study depicting how the shipping industry, by 2030, could cut emissions by 30%. The study, which is a follow-up of the abatement curve launched by DNV during Norshipping in June depicting the reduction potential of the existing world fleet, looks at the reduction potential of both the existing fleet and newbuildings. The study, which is a follow-up of the abatement curve launched by DNV during Norshipping in June depicting the reduction potential of the existing world fleet, looks at the reduction potential of both the existing fleet and newbuildings. (Motorship 17 December 2009).

Shipping left in limbo after Copenhagen fails to deliver

The inconclusive outcome of the Copenhagen climate talks has left the shipping industry with no clear answers on emissions, and still facing the possibility of a twin tax on emissions as well as potential regional schemes aimed at CO2 reductions. The lack of clarity on the future role of the International Maritime Organization and how shipping should be part of the global move to reduce greenhouse gases left many experts in the dark. (Lloyd’s List 20 December 2010).

Global Vessel Efficiency System to reduce carbon emissions

The World Shipping Council and its members have proposed to the International Maritime Organization and its member governments a new global Vessel Efficiency System, which would improve the carbon and fuel efficiency of the world’s fleet and therefore reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The proposal is for the IMO to apply vessel efficiency design standards for both new and existing vessels in the world’s fleet. Newly built vessels would be subject to mandatory efficiency standards requiring new ships to be built with features and technologies that further improve the energy efficiency of the vessels to reach defined levels. Your Industry News (press release), 22 Jan, 2010. more »