Reducing emissions in the Baltic Sea

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It was a pleasure to see the great traction the BSR InnoShip project had around the Baltic Sea. The administrations, academia, industry as well as NGOs contributed to the success of the project. We are seeing a lasting value through the partnerships created as well as the increasing acceptance of low-emission innovations as a cost-effective solution to the challenges of maritime transport.Tapani Stipa, project leaderAs one of the world’s busiest shipping routes, the Baltic Sea has seen an increase in CO2 emissions, resulting in both human health and environment concerns. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) wants to see a reduction in Sulphur oxide from these ships. As a result, the shipping industry across the region now faces an urgent need for low-emission infrastructure and technology.BSR InnoShip was set up to provide decision-makers, authorities and key maritime stakeholders with the required knowledge and best practices to mitigate the effects of CO2 emissions in the Baltic Sea. The 21 partners and 24 associated partners from across Baltic Sea region countries and Russia also raised awareness of the economic implications of reducing such emissions.Manual of Best PracticesA major output of the BSR InnoShip was its so-called ‘Manual of Best Practices’ developed by the partner organisations. For use by the maritime industry, the manual contains environmental and economic support tools, helping the industry adjust to the new regulations on reducing pollutants in Baltic Sea shipping.The team also created an interactive platform to encourage rapid public-private information sharing. Various stakeholder surveys, Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) investment studies and other articles have been published on this platform for use by the maritime industry and policy makers.In addition, the Baltic Sea Clean Maritime Award was launched in 2013 to promote innovative and environmentally friendly ideas, projects and solutions in the Baltic Sea. The Award was also an excellent platform to showcase examples of best practice, while proving useful for knowledge sharing.An economic analysis of clean shipping and an environmental impact assessment were performed during the project. Emission concentration maps were also developed, aiding policy makers in decision-making.Sharing best practicesBSR InnoShip’s findings were promoted at various events and workshops across the EU. Results were also disseminated via the Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission (HELCOM) and other channels including the European Space Agency, European Maritime Safety Agency as well as various Directorate- Generals of the European Commission.Total investment and EU fundingTotal investment for the “Baltic Sea cooperation for reducing ship and port emissions through knowledge and innovation-based competitiveness (BSR InnoShip)” project is EUR 3 621 450, of which the EU’s European Regional Development Fund is contributing EUR 3 110 134 from the Baltic Sea Region Programme for the 2007 to 2013 programming period.