Leading ports in the UK are collaborating through the 2050 Maritime Innovation Hub to launch a Maritime Data Cluster aimed at accelerating the green smart port revolution.
The Maritime Data Cluster aims to facilitate sharing of non-commercial data between ports to achieve collective, workable solutions for the industry in areas such as health and safety, clean energy, decarbonisation, cyber security and asset management.
The 2050 Maritime Innovation Hub has created a strategic partnership with the National Innovation Centre for Data (NICD) to develop the cluster and provide guidance on elements including GDPR, data platforms, data security and methods of sharing.
Founding members include Port of Tyne, ABP, the Bristol Port Company, Poole, Shoreham, Belfast, Aberdeen, Amsterdam and Forth Ports, with more expected to join over time.
“Ports are facing a multitude of common challenges, from the rising cost of energy to maintaining a safe working environment; from embracing digital technology to efficient utilisation of cargo handling equipment,” said John Chaplin, Director of External Affairs & Special Projects at The Bristol Port Company.
“With collaboration and data sharing Ports can benefit and The Bristol Port Company is delighted to actively participate in this significant initiative led by our colleagues at the Port of Tyne.”
Some £60 million ($65 million) of funding will go to the UK maritime industry to reduce emissions.
UK companies will be able to bid for a slice of the funding.
