{"id":446,"date":"2018-08-24T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2018-08-23T23:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.innovationnewsnetwork.com\/environmental-impact-of-shipping\/446\/"},"modified":"2018-08-24T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2018-08-23T23:00:00","slug":"environmental-impact-of-shipping","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.innovationnewsnetwork.com\/environmental-impact-of-shipping\/446\/","title":{"rendered":"An audit of the environmental impact of shipping"},"content":{"rendered":"

Innovation News Network explores how energy auditing of the vessels of the future is helping to optimise ship operation and reduce emissions, minimising the environmental impact of shipping.<\/h2>\n

With fuel and renewable sources of energy powering ships across the world\u2019s oceans, the cost of these are a major component in the cost of ship operations. Therefore, energy auditing is used to optimise energy efficiency on board through identifying key areas where energy can be conserved. As an increasing number of ships transitions towards renewable energy sources, an energy audit can help to identify how favourable these sources are in comparison to more traditional power solutions. Innovation News Network explores how energy auditing of the vessels of the future is helping to optimise ship operation and reduce emissions to minimise the environmental impact of shipping.<\/p>\n

How can energy efficiency on-board be improved?<\/h3>\n

An industry effort to decarbonise both the ocean and air has led to the development of the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), a compulsory specification document for all new vessels which seeks to cut the environmental impact of shipping. As a result, the development of new technologies and energy efficient design features must facilitate adherence to EEDI standards. A green ship is the ultimate ideal in decarbonisation, and it is thought that innovative ship design and operational measures, alongside a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions, are integral in achieving this ideal.<\/p>\n

As such, a working group established by the International Maritime Organization, has made suggestions in reference to endorsement of the EEDI on all new ships about 400 GT.<\/p>\n

Although, some exceptions will stand, including roll on\/roll off vessels and those with electric, turbine or hybrid propulsion systems; of which will be targeted by the EEDI once an appropriate reference for ships with such propulsion systems has been outlined in the index.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, alternative renewable solutions to fuel have been found in liquefied petroleum gas, solar and wind power. However, it is not only the fuel source which is being re-thought, passage planning and continual review of routes are integral in enhancing the energy efficiency of ships.<\/p>\n

What is an energy audit?<\/h3>\n

The aim of energy auditing is to help understand in detail the ways in which energy and fuel are used within industry, assisting in identifying areas where waste can be limited. The benefits are wide ranging \u2013 reduction in energy costs, environmental impact and bolstering accessibility to energy supplies. An energy audit consists of the following processes:<\/p>\n