Use innovation and technology
Alternative Shipping Solutions
New construction technologies that fit the ships to the river--and meet economical and ecological requirements--already exist.
The European inland navigation fleets are characterized by a large variety of vessels. Industry is facing increasing environmental requirements and regulations for the building, operation, and maintenance of ships. But there is a lack of insight as to how new requirements and new technologies will impact ship design, construction, operation, maintenance, and scrapping. Knowledge of available methods for environmental impact reduction must be disseminated and facts must be documented on the environmental impacts of the shipping industry.
PACSCAT
The concept of a “Partial Air Cushion Support Catamaran,” being developed by IMAA LTD, incorporates an air cushion that supports approx. 50% of the freight. The ship is able to navigate on the Rhine and the Danube, and the draught of the ship is flexible to adjust to shallow conditions. The draught is between 1.5 and 2.5 metres. Compared to other cargo ships, emissions are significantly lower. Waves and currents caused by PACSCAT are similar to those caused by any other ship navigating in shallow water.
Futura Tankers
The “Futura” concept was developed by New Logistics and is an innovative ship modular system that can be adapted to any kind of intended shipping use. Apart from the “Futura Tanker” there is also an especially environmentally friendly coaster, the "Futura Carrier" that is already completed. All “Futura” ships are compatible with the water conditions; their high manoeuvre-ability (which includes a 4-engines concept) reduces waves and prevents damage on riverbanks. State-of-the-art gas purification systems make the ships competitive with the high standards of trucks regarding prevention of air pollution. More information
Interbarge
The Interbarge concept combines state-of-the-art barge design with efficient Ro-Ro technology. The Interbarge has varying air draught so it can be used on all main waterways. The new Interbarge construction concept enables easier and faster construction of ship and barge hulls.
Inbat
The Inbat project (Innovative Barge Trains for effective transport on inland shallow waters) aims to develop a system for inland navigation that is efficient in terms of energy and costs and has less draught. More information
