China launched its first training platform to simulate methanol bunkering operations at Putuo District, Zhoushan on 15 January. 

The Methanol Bunkering System Simulation Training Platform V1.0 was created to fill technical gaps in domestic methanol bunkering training and exercises, in light of the growing demand and popularity for methanol in the shipping industry.  

Through the real-life simulation, the platform helps ship operators improve their safety management and emergency response capabilities, improving the development of green shipping technologies.

The platform was jointly developed by Zhejiang Ocean-U New Energy System Engineering and Zhejiang Ocean University. 

At the press conference , Zhejiang Ocean-U New Energy System Engineering successfully signed its first purchase agreement with Seacon Ships Management (Zhejiang), making Seacon the first customer to purchase the platform service. 

Wang Guofeng, chairman of Seacon, said that the platform has great potential in improving crew operating efficiency and safety, and he looks forward to deeper cooperation with Zhejiang Ocean-U New Energy System Engineering in the future.

Professor Lu Jinshu, Vice President of Zhejiang Ocean University, said they will continuously improve the platform to contribute more in the field of green shipping solutions to the industry. 

Photo credit: Manifold Times
Published: 23 January, 2025

Klaipėda State Seaport Authority on Wednesday (22 January) said the first ever green hydrogen and electricity-powered ship in Lithuania has been moved from shipyard into water. 

Leaving no trace on the environment, it will clean other vessels entering the port, accepting waste from them.

According to the current rules, vessels are obliged to hand over the waste they produce when they arrive and before they leave Klaipėda Port. The Seaport Authority was entrusted with the collection of the waste, and the company decided to use modern and environmentally friendly equipment to further improve the quality of the ship waste collection service.

The tanker’s main function is to collect storm water, sewage, sludge and garbage, as well as to ensure efficient waste management. The ship will be equipped with special tanks and a modern rainwater treatment plant that will allow the treated water to be transferred to the city’s sewage treatment plants. The tanker will be ready to work around the clock and collect up to 400 cubic metres of liquid waste.

The tanker is 42 metres long and 10 metres wide. The ship’s power system will consist of two electric motors powered by 2,000 kWh batteries and a hydrogen fuel cell system. Depending on the intensity of the work, the tanker will be able to operate in the port of Klaipėda for up to 36 hours without additional power charging.

This ship building project with a total value of EUR 12 million (USD 12.5 million) has been commissioned by the Port Authority and is being built by West Baltic Shipyard together with Baltic Workboats under a joint operating agreement.

“We have not only launched a tanker, but also a new approach to port operations – cleaner, smarter and more environmentally friendly. This first ever hydrogen and electricity-powered ship is not only an innovative technological solution, but also an important step in strengthening Lithuania’s image as a modern maritime nation,” said Algis Latakas, Director General of Klaipėda State Seaport Authority.

“At the moment, the tanker is getting used to the seaport water, so to speak, and at the end of the year we expect it to start its important mission of taking care of the clean seaport environment. Such a decision will not leave a footprint on nature, but it will certainly leave a strong mark on our path to a greener future.”

In June last year, a symbolic keel-laying ceremony at the West Baltic Shipyard of the West Baltic Shipyard Group marked the start of the ship’s construction. To date, the hull has been fabricated and painted, with piping, valves, coolers, shaft lines, rudder feathers, heat and fire insulation installed.

Once the tanker is moved into the water, the engine room equipment will be installed, the interior of the wheelhouse will be redecorated, the electrical wiring and the main electrical engines will be installed, the hydrogen system will be installed and other work necessary for the operation of the ship will be carried out.

Photo credit: Klaipėda State Seaport Authority
Published: 23 January, 2025

Dublin Bay Cruises on Wednesday (22 January) announced the launch of its eco-friendly initiative by moving from fossil fuels to Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) in their existing passenger ship St. Bridget. 

The company said it is now the first domestic passenger ship operator in Ireland to adopt this sustainable practice aimed at reducing environmental impact while enhancing the marine experience for visitors.

In adapting the Circular Economy Policy they have remanufactured the engines of St Bridget, making her more fuel-efficient, and dramatically reducing emissions. By doing this, instead of building from scratch, they not only reduced waste but also took a major step toward a greener future.

This change will reduce emissions by up to 90%, which will exceed the climate targets set by the EU and Ireland. This thoughtful investment underscores Dublin Bay Cruises’ commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism.

“Recently Dublin Bay Cruises faced a crucial decision—whether to invest in a larger vessel for increased passenger numbers or to reconsider our approach and focus on sustainability,” said founder and Managing Director Eugene Garrihy.

“After careful thought, we chose the latter. Our choice reflects not just a business decision, but a responsibility to the environment and the future of our coastal communities. We need to slow things down.”

Garrihy added: “We are deeply aware of the privilege and responsibility we have to operate in UNESCOs Dublin Bay Biosphere, one of the most beautiful marine environments in the world. This initiative is a reflection of our commitment to preserving Dublin Bay for future generations while still providing our customers with an unforgettable and sustainable marine experience,”

The transition includes substantial investments in reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency onboard with solar panels, and incorporating green technologies into its daily operations. Dublin Bay Cruises has also partnered with Failte Ireland’s “Climate Action Programme” and with local marine conservation groups to support biodiversity and the protection of the rich marine life found in Dublin Bay.

Being the first domestic passenger ship in Ireland to take this important step is not just a milestone for Dublin Bay Cruises, but also hopefully an encouragement for others working in tourism industries to take the leap and follow suit in safeguarding Ireland’s natural heritage.

The company added St. Bridget will now continue to serve as a passenger ship for at least another decade, with far fewer emissions than before. 

Photo credit: Dublin Bay Cruises
Published: 23 January, 2025