Key Takeaways from the Interferry Conference
We’re thrilled to share our remarkable experience as Bronze Sponsors and Speakers at Interferry Conference 47; standing proudly among the leaders of the Ferry Industry and contributing to this significant event with industry experts and visionaries was an honour. In this month’s BLOG, we recap our key takeaways from the events.
Elevating Sustainability through Proactive Biofouling Management
Our CEO, Trevor Tasker of EMCS Industries, and biofouling expert, Dr. Ashley Coutts from Biofouling Solutions Pty Ltd, had the privilege of shedding light on sustainability through proactive maintenance and effective biofouling management. Biofouling management goes beyond being a buzzword; it’s integral to responsible ship operations, safeguarding oceans, and ensuring the long-term health of marine ecosystems. This impactful presentation brought biofouling management to the forefront, and owners and operators must consider biofouling as part of their strategic plan for a sustainable future.
The Decade of Sustainability: Navigating the Future
In the broader context of sustainability, the Conference emphasized that the marine industry is at a pivotal juncture. With increasing regulatory frameworks and sustainability strategies, the focus shifts towards implementation. This next decade is poised to be a turning point, demanding a concerted effort towards energy transition and a sustainable future.
InterFerry Leader’s Panel Highlights: Navigating Complexity
The panellists at this year’s Interferry Conference highlighted the complexity of the ferry industry, surpassing even aviation due to a lack of standardization. Existing fleets pose challenges for owners and operators pursuing sustainability. The consensus? An all-technology approach is crucial until fleet renewal becomes feasible. While electrification dominates, panellists stressed paying attention to the potential of hydrogen and hydrogen-hybrid solutions.
Panellists, including Erik Bombard, Sabrina Hornig, Christopher Mathieu, Nell Payne, and Duncan Roy, emphasized collaboration, open-mindedness, and information sharing for industry benefit. Decarbonization is crucial, with knowledge sharing on retrofitting existing vessels being paramount.
Shifting Views on Carbon Assessment: From Emissions to Energy Content
Johan Roos’s perspective on transitioning to the Fuel EU Maritime was enlightening. The emphasis shifts from measuring a vessel’s carbon emissions to assessing the carbon content of the energy used, providing a more concrete measure of sustainability.
EMCS and Biofouling Management: Aligning with the Future
In light of shifting views on carbon assessment, implications for biofouling management are profound. The industry’s focus on the carbon content of onboard energy underscores the importance of Marine Growth Protection Systems (MGPS) in sustainability; improved fuel efficiency, minimized environmental impact, and extended service life of the vessels are all of the benefits of MGPS.
Safety Concerns and Technology Advancements: Navigating Risks
A notable takeaway from the Conference, shared by Janvier Hebron, highlighted rising safety concerns, particularly regarding vessel electric fires. Increased use of electric vehicles and hybrid-electric power poses challenges, emphasizing the need for a vigilant approach to safety. Fire suppression systems underscore the necessity for maintaining internal seawater systems free from fouling, especially on Ferries and Cruise ships, for safety reasons.
Conclusion: Charting the Course for a Sustainable Future
In conclusion, the Interferry Conference has set the stage for a transformative decade in the maritime industry. The imperative to implement sustainability measures is clear, requiring a nuanced approach for existing fleets. Collaboration, information sharing, and a focus on safety and innovation will be instrumental in navigating the complexities of the ferry industry.
At EMCS, we are committed to advancing sustainability through effective biofouling management. Reflecting on the insights shared at #Interferry2023, we are confident that the industry’s collective efforts will drive positive change, steering us towards a greener, cleaner maritime future.
Are you interested in our Interferry presentation? Contact us today for a copy!
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