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2024 Journal Impact Factor - 0.6
2024 CiteScore - 1.9
ISSN 2083-6473
ISSN 2083-6481 (electronic version)
Editor-in-Chief
Associate Editor
Prof. Tomasz Neumann
Published by
TransNav, Faculty of Navigation
Gdynia Maritime University
3, John Paul II Avenue
81-345 Gdynia, POLAND
e-mail transnav@umg.edu.pl
Enhancing Ship Energy Efficiency and Preventing Pollution through Effective Biofouling Control Measures as a Future Direction for a Sustainable Shipping
1 Gdynia Maritime University, Gdynia, Poland
ABSTRACT: In recent years, the global emphasis on climate and environmental protection has been increasingly prominent, with the maritime industry playing a critical role in this endeavour. The path to decarbonizing maritime transport is marked by the implementation of stringent regulations such as EEXI/CII and EEDI, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy efficiency. As industry navigates this transitional phase, there is a growing need for cost-effective solutions that align with evolving environmental standards. One frequently underappreciated factor influencing fuel consumption and total emissions is biofouling—the accumulation of marine organisms on ship hulls. Biofouling significantly increases drag, leading to heightened fuel consumption and emissions, with severe cases potentially increasing emissions by up to 55%. This article explores the impact of biofouling on maritime sustainability, discussing its effects on fuel efficiency, emissions, and environmental pollution, while examining current regulatory frameworks and innovative mitigation strategies such as in-water cleaning and advanced anti-fouling technologies. By addressing biofouling effectively, the maritime sector can make substantial strides towards meeting decarbonization targets and reducing its ecological footprint.
KEYWORDS:
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Citation note:
Kawa M.: Enhancing Ship Energy Efficiency and Preventing Pollution through Effective Biofouling Control Measures as a Future Direction for a Sustainable Shipping. TransNav, the International Journal on Marine Navigation and Safety of Sea Transportation, Vol. 19, No. 4, doi:10.12716/1001.19.04.26, pp. 1277-1285, 2025
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