In a significant stride towards greener maritime transport, a researcher from UNSW Sydney has developed a method for cargo ships to harness natural ocean movements, potentially slashing their pollution output. With cargo ships hauling approximately 11 billion tons of goods annually, their environmental impact is substantial. These floating behemoths, often carrying thousands of containers, guzzle vast amounts of fuel, spewing black carbon and sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. Enter Shane Keating, associate professor at UNSW Sydney, who has spent 15 years refining a solution under the banner of UNSW-owned company CounterCurrent.
Keating’s innovation lies in forecasting ocean currents using artificial intelligence and modeling. By tapping into satellite sensors, his algorithm gathers data points about ocean currents, crafting the most efficient routes tailored to each ship. “The algorithm is like a Google Maps for the sea, giving the most efficient route in real time based on the behavior of ocean eddies,” Keating explained. This tech promises to make cargo ship travel more efficient, reducing fuel consumption and, consequently, pollution.
The implications are far-reaching. Reduced fuel usage could lower shipping companies’ costs, potentially leading to cheaper goods for consumers. Moreover, cleaner air could improve public health and trim healthcare costs. Keating’s breakthrough is part of a broader trend in the shipping industry. In 2024, the world’s largest electric container ship began regular routes, demonstrating the industry’s shift towards cleaner practices. Earlier this year, the UN’s International Maritime Organization agreed to mandate cleaner fuels for international shipping vessels.
Keating has tested his ocean-mapping algorithm on over 100 ships and is poised to commercialize it. “My hope is that, within the next five years, this research will change the way that ships cross the ocean so that shipping companies can meet their emissions targets,” he said. If widely adopted, this technology could significantly reduce the maritime industry’s carbon footprint, setting a precedent for other sectors to follow suit.
This development also sparks debate about the pace of innovation in the maritime industry. While Keating’s algorithm is a step forward, some argue that the industry has been slow to adopt green technologies. The question remains: will this breakthrough accelerate the industry’s shift towards sustainability, or will it be another incremental step in a long journey?
Furthermore, the success of this technology hinges on its adoption by shipping companies. While the potential cost savings and environmental benefits are compelling, the industry’s traditional resistance to change could pose a challenge. It’s also worth considering the broader implications for global trade. If this technology becomes standard, could it lead to more efficient supply chains and faster delivery times?
In the meantime, the maritime industry continues to grapple with its environmental impact. From electric ships to cleaner fuels, the sector is exploring various avenues to reduce its carbon footprint. Keating’s algorithm is a promising addition to this toolkit, offering a practical, data-driven approach to greener shipping. As the world watches, the maritime industry stands at a crossroads, poised to either embrace innovation or risk being left behind in the race towards sustainability.