ABS And Vanderbilt University Deliver Landmark U.S. Waterways Decarbonization Report

Decarbonization of the Inland Waterway Sector in the United States evaluates the potential for possible future propulsion technologies and alternative fuels to reduce carbon emissions. The report also demonstrates the feasibility of near-term electrification of smaller vessels operating on the inland river system with a case study and renderings of a weighted and balanced boat retrofitted with electrical propulsion.

“We are proud to be at the forefront of decarbonization efforts globally as well as regionally in the U.S. This collaborative study with one of the country’s leading universities evaluates the fuel and technology options and approaches that will help drive decarbonization of the U.S. inland waterways and support a safer and more sustainable fleet,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman, President and CEO.

“While the GHG profile of the inland waterways is low compared to other shipping sectors the need to decarbonize operations is growing more pressing all the time. The sector faces unique challenges and limitations and will require a bespoke emissions approach, which is analyzed in this study with Vanderbilt University. While electrification clearly offers smaller inland river vessels swift CO2 gains, the report also explores the wider decarbonization landscape that will need to be navigated to put this sector on a sustainable footing,” said Georgios Plevrakis, ABS Director Global Sustainability.

At Vanderbilt, the work was a collaboration between the Vanderbilt Center for Transportation and Operational Resiliency and the Vanderbilt Climate Change Initiative (VCCI).

“We are excited about some of the possibilities and pathways identified in this report. For example, we are hopeful that a pilot project based on river fleet boat electrification can be accomplished in the near term, which would inform scalability potential and cost, as well as further research needs,” said VCCI Director Leah Dundon. “These types of grand challenges can’t be undertaken alone—they require input and insight from a broad range of skill sets and expertise, so Vanderbilt was extremely pleased to collaborate with ABS on this project.”

This report is the latest in a series of industry-leading ABS sustainability guidance and leadership publications.

Download a copy of the report here.

Reference: ABS

Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.

Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction

Latest Shipping News You Would Like:

Get the Latest Maritime News Delivered to Your Inbox!

Our free, fast, and fun newsletter on the global maritime industry, delivered everyday.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *