EnviSuM: Technical efficiency and socio-economic impact of clean shipping in focus

 

Spring 2017


Environmental Impact of Low Emission Shipping: Measurements and Modelling Strategies – EnviSuM

Shipping regulations and environmental investments have been discussed widely in the media, as well as by politicians and lobbies. However, only limited information is available on the technical efficiency and socio-economic impacts of the different clean shipping solutions and of their capacity to comply with the regulations. Cross-sectoral , cross-border discussions and novel tools are needed by the authorities, policy makers, NGOs, and the private sector for knowledge-based decisionmaking. Specifically, policy makers and authorities are faced with a lack of information for the development of future environmental regulations. Similarly, the shipping sector needs to make knowledge-based investment decisions.

We answer questions on the shipping industry's compliance with the environmental regulations for shipping such as the effi ciency of different techniques or fuels for removing pollution (e.g SOx, NOx, particulate matter, CO2 and methane) from exhaust gases. The cost-effectiveness of various measures taken to comply will be studied.

Measurement and modelling strategies, for compliance with the regulations, will enable us to assess current and future compliance costs as well as the effects on health and the environment. We will provide analysis and tested tools, as well as recommendations, which will be a benefit for the welfare of the people of the Baltic Sea Region.

At the same time, the outcomes of the project will support maritime businesses and economic growth. The clean shipping solutions provide business potential in the form of eco-innovation. The Baltic Sea Region is a forerunner in this respect, and it acts as a living lab for clean shipping.

The development of clean shipping solutions and technologies supports spin-off companies and provides leadership for European industry in the global markets.

The effectiveness of one specifi c regulation, namely the Sulphur emission control area (SECA), will be analysed by comparing the costs and benefits of the regulation ex post. As part of this work, we will offer a free web-based economic decision tool for companies to be able to decide on the best investments to cope with SECA regulations, and for other maritime target groups to estimate investment costs.

In addition to promoting technological development and improving future regulation, we will be active in integrating the results into the wider community and society. Answering the globally increasing demand on air quality improvement will ultimately bring economic opportunities and well-being for BSR citizens. We propose a comprehensive regulation impact framework for socio-economic effects that can be extended to other environmental regulation to support the needs of consistent and reliable evidence-based maritime policy (see Figure 1).

Figure 1: Direct and indirect categorical impacts of environmental regulation

 

The flagship project involves 12 partners from Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Norway, Poland, and Sweden. In addition, there are 17 associated organizations, including Russian partners.

Lead Partner: University of Turku, Finland.

Funding: European Regional Development Fund, EUR 3.2 million.

Deadline: February 2019


Contact details:
https://blogit.utu.fi /envisum/
@EnviSuMproject