Ship emissions reduction via slow steaming without disrupting the logistical supply chain: A case study of the port of Felixstowe

Abstract

In this era of global supply chains and just-in-time logistics, the speed with which shipping companies can deliver goods to their customers is an economic competitive advantage. The growth of international trade means more ships and more voyages which will contribute to the increasing global emissions inventory. Nonetheless, developments in ship environmental performance have not matched the increase in shipping activities. Several environmental protection and emissions reduction measures have been identified but are yet to be implemented globally due to technological gaps and their capital-intensiveness. This paper focused on addressing the challenges of applying “slow steaming” as a measure of cutting emissions. It demonstrated that by applying analytical models, the optimal berthing capacity can be defined and that by implementing the model, ships can employ slow steaming to reduce emissions. The paper also proposed a collaboration between port and ship owners/companies where real-time information is exchanged to facilitate access and swift cargo operations at ports so that ships can employ speed reduction techniques during a sail.