Tag: Funding

The European Commission granted a project which aims to develop a biomimetic hull coating that reduces the frictional resistance of ships. A team of ten European scientists and industry experts led by the Fraunhofer Center for Maritime Technologies and Services will receive a total grant of 5.3 million Euro to develop the AIRCOAT prototype.

The Federation of Private Port Companies and Terminals announced that it supports the request for more budget for transport and repeats several key points which are crucial for attracting private investment in ports. FEPORT urged for investment to improve hinterland connections and multimodal projects, such as ports, which have a real and evaluated market need.

The US EPA announced the availability of grant funding to modernize the country's diesel fleet by retrofitting or replacing vehicles with cleaner, more efficient diesel engines. Through its Diesel Emission Reduction Program, EPA anticipates awarding approximately $40 million to eligible applicants.

Under its 'Connecting Europe Facility' program, the European Commission has funded a project aimed at paving the way for LNG as fuel to trucks and inland waterway vessels in Germany. Berlin-based Liquind announced it will start construction of ten LNG stations after an EU grant of 3.3 million euros.

The US MARAD announced the availability of $19.6 million in federal funding to support capital improvements and employee training at small US shipyards. The grants are provided under the Small Shipyard Grant Program, to help eligible shipyards modernize operations and increase efficiency.

Under the National Environmental Science Program, the Australian Government has funded a research on the measurement of shipping noise and its potential impact on whales and other marine animals. This would be the first comprehensive nation-wide assessment of shipping noise in Australia.

The UK P&I Club made a donation to the International Maritime Rescue Federation, in a bid to support its work developing resources, training and building preparedness for maritime mass rescue operations. The IMRF is the international non-governmental organisation which works to develop and improve maritime search and rescue.

Lloyd's Register Foundation and the University of York announced that they are set to lead a £12m program regarding the safety of robotics and autonomous systems, as using RAS will bring benefits, but it is not without risks.

In response of last year's bankruptcy of Hanjin Shipping, THE Alliance Agreement is establishing a USD 50 million contingency fund that can be used to help member carriers manage through, and recover from, the insolvency or financial distress of a participating line.

In order to enhance merchant shipping in UK, the Port of Tyne has introduced a new fund, to help seafarers who are in need of welfare support while visiting the port. The welfare fund is expected to further enable visits to ships, legal support, translation and communication support, counselling, transport and emergency care.