TURNING THE VOLUME DOWN

Grappling with the next round of regulatory challenges is an ongoing issue for those operating in the maritime industry. There is no avoiding new regulations, but do industry players have to totally reconfigure their operations or can they adapt existing processes to meet the requirements?

One point to consider is the playoff between ecofriendliness and safety. This has been particularly evident when it comes to onboard fires: although products used might be eco-friendly, they are not necessarily more effective in safety terms and might even potentially limit the chances of a positive outcome. The reverse is also true: a non eco-friendly product might be the best to use from the safety perspective.

Another recent hot topic is that of underwater noise. Like other issues on the maritime agenda, there have been a number of initiatives at international level to address the problem.

Draft guidelines to reduce underwater noise were agreed at the International Maritime Organization sub committee on ship design and construction at the end of January. The sub committee produced an overview of approaches applicable to designers, shipbuilders and ship operators to reduce underwater noise. These will be submitted for approval to the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), which meets from July 3-7.

The issue of underwater noise is not easy to deal with, but better propeller design is one way forward. Reducing any cavitation makes things quieter, while improving performance, as well as covering the screws in graphene, or boring holes in the blades.

When it comes to innovative propeller designs, one example is that developed by Oscar Propulsion and the University of Strathclyde. The patented PressurePores™ system reduces propeller tip vortex cavitation by applying a small number of strategically placed holes in the propeller blades. The addition of these pressure-relieving holes allows ships to operate with a much quieter propeller.

Meanwhile, reducing underwater noise might mean ships have to go even slower, or undertake massive diversions to avoid confusing sea creatures, as former Lloyd’s List editor Michael Grey explained recently in Maritime Advocate

It is yet another challenge for all those operating in the sector, adding to those regulatory deadlines already on the agenda. One thing is certain, owners and operators will have their work cut out.

We hope you enjoy this latest edition of Clean Shipping International

THE ONLY EVENT AIMED AT THE ENTIRE BULK TERMINALS INDUSTRY

The Annual Conference of the Association of Bulk Terminal Operators (ABTO)

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The 2023 conference will set the scene with the traditional analysis of bulk markets, continuing with a full programme focused on the concerns of operators – offering sound practical solutions to terminal operators for improving safety, streamlining operations and ensuring environmental protection.

The conflict in Ukraine had a serious impact throughout 2022 on bulk trade flows. This will undoubtedly continue this year. And while the world may be opening up, the effects of covid-19 will continue to affect global supply chains. Lisbon will examine the impact of both on bulk terminal operations – both short term and in the future.

To discuss speaking and sponsorship opportunities please call Simon Gutteridge +33 (0)321 47 72 19 or email events@bulkterminals.org

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