As the world transitions to a low carbon economy, the way we use the seas will also change. Vessels are in a state of flux as new communications technology and advances in automation mean that the requirements for a crew are rapidly disappearing for many operations.
This brings amazing benefits for sustainability, as well as the obvious safety gains. For some vessels the efficiency improvements from having no crew have seen a 95% saving in fuel. On top of this, hybrid and electric propulsion is reducing fossil fuel use still further.
The maritime industry has complexities that mean there are still challenges to overcome, but with vessels redesign and operational changes on the horizon, a green industry may not be too far in the future.
Host
Jon Baston-Pitt
Guests
Ben Simpson, Chief Executive Officer, Sea-Kit International
Peter Toxopeüs, Fleet Development Manager, Fugro