Tuesday, April 16, 2024

9:45 AM - 11:00 AM

Hall 8A-2 (Simmonscourt)

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Details

In Europe, hundreds of ferries transport passengers and goods between cities, regions and countries, and in multiple cases these ferries are the only mode of transport to and from a certain region (like the large number of islands in the Mediterranean). Without these ferries, villages are without supplies of goods and connections with the rest of the world. Ferries thereby play an essential role in the daily life of EU citizens. The age of the ferry fleet in Europe is relatively old, and thereby there is a need to retrofit or renew the European ferry fleet as soon as possible, in order to be able to meet the 2030 and 2050 targets as laid down in the European Green Deal. However, the choice of fuel is not a one-size fits all. Some ferries are sailing on fixed routes between two ports, whilst others start from a certain port, call several ports before coming back to the first port. In all ports being called, the same type of sustainable alternative fuel or energy carrier should be available. On the other hand, retrofitting or renewing the European ferry fleet will offer a unique opportunity to the broader waterborne transport sector in Europe: the ships can be built in Europe, equipped with European maritime equipment, and they will sail in Europe. A truly unique European cooperation, which should be kick started as soon as possible to ensure zero-emission operations when transporting passengers and goods. The challenges and opportunities, as well as the potential way forward, including RD&I needs, will be discussed during this session. Speakers: Pieter Huyskens, Damen Shipyards Maria Boile, CERTH and University of Piraeus Moderator: Jaap Gebraad (Waterborne)

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Speaker