The upcoming IMO meeting from 18-22 April 2016 offers Governments a genuine opportunity to accelerate carbon reduction action within the shipping sector in line with the rest of the world’s commitment to urgent reduction of GHG emissions. However, with many other items on the agenda, a serious discussion of this critical issue is not guaranteed, ISWA says.
The shipping sector urgently needs strong, clear leadership from the IMO to be able to deliver low carbon ships that can serve the world in line with the Paris Agreement.
In shipping’s favour is the plethora of low carbon technology solutions readily available for deployment. There is a significant fuel and emission saving opportunity available from installing wind technology devices on commercial ships.
The International Windship Association (IWSA) facilitates and promotes wind propulsion for commercial shipping worldwide and brings together all parties in the development of the wind-ship sector to shape industry and government attitudes and policies. IWSA members have market-ready technologies either in commercial operation or in late stage development. It supports the call for shipping to commit to its ‘fair share’.
Gavin Allwright, Secretary General of IWSA said:
“There are a wealth of available solutions, either currently being tested on ships, or in late stage development, that use 21st century technology to harness wind as a viable propulsion for shipping. The shipping industry is behind the curve in embracing opportunities from renewable energy. There is a vast body of support from academia, through to engineers and classification societies that recognise wind as one of the key opportunities for the shipping sector to rapidly reduce emissions.”
Allwright points to endorsement for wind power in shipping from major engineering conglomerates like Rolls-Royce and Wartsila and reminds us of comments made last year by LR’s new executive President Tom Boardley when he said: “LR is [also] looking at alternative methods of propulsion such as wind-power for vessels.”
Allwright goes on to say: A clear commitment to emission reduction from the IMO at this month’s meeting will stimulate a new green-golden age of shipping where innovation in the sector attracts a new generation of recruits and brings new energy to this lifeblood of global trade.”
“Without clear leadership investors in new technology for the shipping industry do not have sufficient confidence to commit to these and other technically and commercially viable solutions that are the best hope for the sector achieving net zero emissions by 2050.”
Source & Image Credit: IWSA
