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The Role of Research and Innovation in Europe for the Decarbonisation of Waterborne Transport

Author

Listed:
  • Monica Grosso

    (Joint Research Centre (JRC), European Commission, 21027 Ispra, Italy)

  • Fabio Luis Marques dos Santos

    (Joint Research Centre (JRC), European Commission, 21027 Ispra, Italy)

  • Konstantinos Gkoumas

    (Joint Research Centre (JRC), European Commission, 21027 Ispra, Italy)

  • Marcin Stępniak

    (Joint Research Centre (JRC), European Commission, 21027 Ispra, Italy)

  • Ferenc Pekár

    (Joint Research Centre (JRC), European Commission, 21027 Ispra, Italy)

Abstract

Waterborne transport contributes to around 14% of the overall greenhouse gas emissions of transport in the European Union and it is among the most efficient modes of transport. Nonetheless, considering the aim of making the European Union carbon-neutral by 2050 and the fundamental role of waterborne transport within the European economy, effort is needed to reduce its environmental impact. This paper provides an assessment of research and innovation measures aiming at decreasing waterborne transport’s CO 2 emissions by assessing European projects based on the European Commission’s Transport Research and Innovation Monitoring and Information System (TRIMIS). Additionally, it provides an outlook of the evolution of scientific publications and intellectual property activity in the area. The review of project findings suggests that there is no single measure which can be considered as a problem solver in the area of the reduction of waterborne CO 2 emissions, and only the combination of different innovations should enable reaching this goal. The highlighted potential innovations include further development of lightweight composite materials, innovative hull repair methods, wind assisted propulsion, engine efficiency, waste heat electrification, hydrogen and alternative fuels. The assessment shows prevalence of funding allocated to technological measures; however, non-technological ones, like improved vessel navigation and allocation systems, also show a great potential for the reduction of CO 2 emissions and reduction of negative environmental impacts of waterborne transport.

Suggested Citation

  • Monica Grosso & Fabio Luis Marques dos Santos & Konstantinos Gkoumas & Marcin Stępniak & Ferenc Pekár, 2021. "The Role of Research and Innovation in Europe for the Decarbonisation of Waterborne Transport," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(18), pages 1-21, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:18:p:10447-:d:639106
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    References listed on IDEAS

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