The European Space Agency (ESA) has launched a new initiative, Decarbonization through Digitalization in Shipping (DECARDIS), in partnership with Awake.AI, ABB, and Wallenius Marine.
Funded by ESA and led by Awake.AI, the project aims to develop a port call optimisation solution designed to reduce GHG emissions by addressing inefficiencies between ships and ports.
The partners noted that, despite significant advances in ship technology and port automation, communication and data-sharing between port and vessel systems remain limited.
Voyage and berth information often exist within closed systems, leading ships to arrive on time but frequently encounter delays upon arrival, resulting in unnecessary fuel consumption and increased emissions.
The DECARDIS project is focused on creating an interoperable platform that integrates decision-making on ship routing and speed, aligning with precise port arrival timings.
As the first of its kind, this solution aims to optimise entire voyages, rather than isolated segments, which could reduce emissions substantially if adopted globally.
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The project aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) goal of achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2050, as well as the EU’s Climate Target Plan, which mandates a 55 per cent reduction in emissions by 2030, compared to 1990 levels.
DECARDIS will combine the ABB and Wallenius Marine-developed voyage optimisation platform, OVERSEA, with Awake.AI’s port call optimisation technology into a single web-based interface accessible to users on board.
OVERSEA users will draw on both an advanced digital solution and support from centre experts to reach decisions on optimising vessel operational performance, cutting bunker costs and reducing emissions.
“With the OVERSEA collaboration, we are establishing a smart fleet support service which enhances efficiency,” said Jesper Lögdström, Head of Performance Management Centre, Wallenius Marine.
“We aim to give crews and shore personnel a common understanding of data and support them with insights and actionable recommendations to improve vessel operational performance. Transparency and close collaboration with clients will be crucial to succeed.”
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“Together with ABB and Wallenius Marine, we have a joint vision to the industry: what if no ship ever had to rush to wait. Every ship would always sail at their optimal speed and take the optimal route,” said Karno Tenovuo, CEO, Awake.AI.
“By combining the technologies Awake.AI has for port call optimisation and ABB and Wallenius Marine have for voyage optimisation, we can make this vision a reality.”
This project forms part of ESA’s broader initiative to support sustainable maritime solutions and assist the industry in meeting evolving European and international regulatory standards.
Earlier this year, Awake.AI announced a partnership with Peel Ports Group to leverage AI-based solutions for berth planning and prediction.
