In the quest to slash carbon emissions from international shipping, a recent study has shed some light on the most effective strategies, particularly for middle-income countries like Türkiye. Led by Ali Kemal Çelik from Ardahan University, the research, published in SAGE Open, employs a fuzzy-Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) approach to rank mitigation measures, providing a roadmap for decarbonization.
So, what’s the big deal about this study? Well, it’s all about prioritizing efforts to meet the International Maritime Organization’s ambitious zero-carbon target by 2035. Çelik and his team surveyed eight experts working at an international port in Türkiye to gauge the importance of various mitigation measures proposed by the International Transport Forum.
The findings are clear: alternative fuels and energy sources are the way to go. “Alternative fuel and energy sources are the most important main mitigation measure of decarbonisation of international shipping,” Çelik states. This isn’t just about picking one winner, though. The study also highlights the importance of a combination of measures to hit that 2035 target.
Diving deeper, the research identifies the most crucial sub-measures. Top of the list is the more efficient use of ammonia, a promising alternative fuel. Following that are light materials, slender ship design, and solar energy use. These insights aren’t just academic; they have real-world implications for the maritime industry.
For shipowners and operators, this means investing in alternative fuels and energy sources could yield significant returns, both environmentally and commercially. Early adopters could secure a competitive edge, appealing to eco-conscious clients and potentially benefiting from future regulations that favor low-carbon shipping.
Ports aren’t left out either. They stand to gain from increased traffic and services related to alternative fuels. This could mean new infrastructure, jobs, and economic growth. Moreover, ports that embrace these changes could become hubs for sustainable shipping, attracting green-minded shipping lines.
The study also underscores the importance of a holistic approach. It’s not just about picking one solution but combining several measures to maximize impact. This could mean retrofitting ships with solar panels, using lighter materials in construction, and optimizing ship design for fuel efficiency.
The maritime industry is at a crossroads. The path to decarbonization is clear, but the journey won’t be easy. However, with insights like those provided by Çelik’s study, stakeholders can make informed decisions, turning the challenge of decarbonization into an opportunity for innovation and growth. As the study published in SAGE Open shows, the future of shipping is green, and those who adapt will thrive.
