by the AIRCOAT Team

To achieve the greenhouse gas emission (GHG-E) reduction goals outlined in the European Green Deal, the aim of which is for Europe to be the first climate-neutral continent, the maritime shipping industry must reduce its footprint: by 50% by 2030 and 90% by mid-century.

This can hardly be ticked off by a single measure alone. Ship resistance reduction means (via advanced coatings, air lubrication, hull management of biofouling, hull form design) are the necessary drivers to reduce emissions.

Shipowners cannot solely focus on alternative fuels, which won't be on hand in the medium-term in large quantities, nor other solutions such as slow steaming, which is well understood but will increase delivery times and the number of ships needed for transport.

As such, hull optimisation technologies look increasingly tempting - for newbuilds and retrofits alike.

Download PDF