São Cristovão e Nevis, The St Kitts Nevis Observer, Inglês

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A CARICOM group met on December 18 to talk about reducing greenhouse gas emissions from ships.

This was the first meeting of the Maritime Technical Working Group (MTWG) since it was set up after a transportation meeting in June. Mr. Richmond Basant from Trinidad and Tobago led the group.

They discussed plans to cut emissions in a fair way for all and had a presentation about managing oceans responsibly, which is important for the Region’s blue economy.

Dr. Wendel Samuel, a CARICOM leader, said these talks were very important for the Region. The meeting aimed to update members, share ideas, plan CARICOM’s next steps, and include experts from The University of the West Indies and the Maritime Technology Cooperation Centre, who help with technical work.

Although the working group did not publish details of what was discussed, here are some of the ideas that are floating around in the shipping sector:

Shipping can cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by adopting various strategies and technologies. Here are some key methods:

1. Energy Efficiency Improvements:
   • Use energy-efficient ship designs (e.g., hull shapes, lightweight materials).
   • Install energy-saving technologies like air lubrication systems or propeller upgrades.
2. Low-Carbon Fuels:
   • Switch to alternative fuels such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), biofuels, ammonia, or hydrogen.
   • Use electric or hybrid propulsion systems where possible.
3. Renewable Energy Integration:
   • Install solar panels or wind-assisted propulsion systems (e.g., sails, kites).
4. Operational Changes:
   • Implement slow steaming (operating ships at lower speeds).
   • Optimize routes using digital tools to reduce fuel consumption.
5. Port Infrastructure Improvements:
   • Use shore power (electricity from ports) to avoid running ship engines while docked.
   • Encourage efficient loading and unloading practices to minimize delays.
6. Regulatory and Market Measures:
   • Comply with international regulations like the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) decarbonization targets.
   • Participate in carbon pricing mechanisms or emissions trading systems.
7. Fleet Modernization:
   • Retire older, less efficient ships and replace them with modern, eco-friendly vessels.

In addition boats can be powered by batteries, and this technology is becoming increasingly popular for various types of vessels. Here’s how battery-powered boats work and where they are used:

How It Works:

• Electric Motors: Batteries store energy and supply it to electric motors that propel the boat.
• Battery Types: Most boats use lithium-ion batteries because they are lightweight, durable, and have high energy density.
• Charging: Boats are charged through shore power connections or, in some cases, solar panels or regenerative systems.

Types of Battery-Powered Boats:

1. Small Recreational Boats: Kayaks, fishing boats, and pleasure boats often use electric motors powered by batteries.
2. Ferries and Passenger Vessels: Many cities use electric ferries for short-distance routes to reduce emissions.
3. Cargo and Workboats: Hybrid or fully electric systems are being tested for smaller cargo ships and harbor workboats.
4. Luxury Yachts: Some yachts now offer electric propulsion as a sustainable option.

Advantages:

• Zero Emissions: No greenhouse gases are produced during operation.
• Quiet Operation: Electric boats are much quieter than traditional engine-powered boats.
• Low Operating Costs: Charging batteries is cheaper than fueling with diesel or gas.
• Reduced Maintenance: Fewer moving parts mean lower maintenance costs and effort.

Limitations:

• Range: Battery-powered boats typically have shorter ranges than fossil-fuel-powered ones.
• Charging Infrastructure: Not all marinas and ports have charging stations.
• Battery Cost: High-capacity batteries are expensive, although costs are decreasing over time.

As battery technology improves and renewable energy becomes more accessible, electric boats are expected to become more widespread, especially in areas with strict emissions regulations.

Sources: CARICOM, OpenAI.

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