New global sulfur standards for ship fuels became effective on 1st January 2020. This provided significant health and environmental benefits, cleaning the air in regions where high sulfur fuel was previously allowed. Technologies for controlling pollution from shipping are relatively new, even if similar equipment has been in use for decades in industrial sites on land. Developing a robust scientific understanding of the environmental impacts of ship emission reduction technologies is a major scientific and societal challenge.

The EMERGE (Evaluation, control and Mitigation of the EnviRonmental impacts of shippinG Emissions) project, funded by the EU Horizon 2020 program, was the first large project to comprehensively analyze the marine and atmospheric impacts of shipping. By exploring advanced emission control technologies, ecotoxicological impacts, and future risk scenarios, the project provided comprehensive insights to guide sustainable shipping practices. Through innovative modeling tools, rigorous experiments, and strategic policy recommendations, EMERGE has contributed to reducing the environmental footprint of maritime activities while preserving marine ecosystems.

Figure 1: Schematic illustrating the scope and approach of the EMERGE project.

In principle, the EMERGE project has successfully met its goals by:

• Quantifying and evaluating the effects of potential emission reduction solutions for shipping in Europe for several scenarios, and
  
• Developing effective strategies and measures to reduce the environmental impacts of shipping
  
  

Join the EMERGE Information Network!

EMERGE is open to all stakeholders globally with an interest in marine and maritime technologies, research and innovation as well as environmental protection.

By becoming a member in our Network you will be contributing to the shaping of the research work and priorities of one of the most innovative projects in the marine and maritime field, while you will be the first one to learn about the project’s research and technology results, tools and methods. Kindly note that participation in the EMERGE Information Network is free of charge. Please join here.

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