The UK has unveiled a plan to become a global hub for low-carbon maritime technology as part of the Government’s Green Maritime Plan
According to a statement from the Department of Transport (DfT), the Clean Maritime plan will come in the shape of a US$2.84 million grant to support what it calls the “development of trailblazing maritime technology”.
In addition, Maritime Minister Nusrat Ghani MP has committed a further $1.23 million to fund new shipping technology projects and green maritime initiatives through MarRI-UK, a consortium of leading maritime organizations.
Exclusive Paper: UK in the Post-Brexit Landscape: Looking Through the Maelstrom
MarRI-UK has already allocated the same amount to support early-stage clean maritime plans and the funding will, according to the DfT, boost “the wealth of maritime knowledge that exists in the UK to build an industry fit for the future.”
Furthermore, this will also see the Government work with the investment community to help finance zero-emission shipping projects. This is part of a wider initiative from the UK government to include financiers and entrepreneurs in its maritime plans.
Nusrat Ghani MP had this to say: “I am delighted to announce this fantastic funding for pioneering research, bringing the UK ever closer to zero-emission shipping.
“The UK continues to lead the way on the global stage, playing a key role in reaching an international agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by at least 50% in 2050.
“This latest investment will help ensure our great maritime nation remains sustainable years into the future.”
Sarah Kenny, Vice-Chair, Maritime UK, also commented: “The UK is home to world-leading maritime technology, particularly in automation. We want to be leaders in the key areas of decarbonization and digitization too.
“MarRI-UK is the first collaborative body in the sector that brings together expertise from all parts of the sector.
“We back decarbonization by 2050 and by working collaboratively with government, we will achieve this.
“Already across Britain we’re seeing promising progress: from hybrid ferries to hydrogen fuel, the sector is tackling the challenge head-on.”
