Special Issue "Advanced Research on the Sustainable Maritime Transportation"

A special issue of Journal of Marine Science and Engineering (ISSN 2077-1312). This special issue belongs to the section "Ocean Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 10 April 2024 | Viewed by 6779

Special Issue Editors

School of Economics and Management, Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai, China
Interests: maritime disaster risk analysis; big data analysis; applied statistics; economics of shipping industry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
School of Economics and Management, Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai, China
Interests: decision sciences; shipping assessment; big data analysis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
College of Transport and Communications, Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai, China
Interests: maritime; transportation; short sea shipping
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue aims to provide a platform for researchers to share their latest findings and insights on sustainable maritime transportation. This Special Issue covers a wide range of topics related to sustainable maritime transportation, including the following:

  1. Green shipping technologies: It explores the latest developments in green shipping technologies, such as alternative fuels, energy-efficient propulsion systems, and emission reduction technologies.
  2. Maritime safety: It refers to the measures and practices that are put in place to prevent accidents and incidents at sea. One of the key areas is the use of autonomous vessels. Another area is the use of data analytics.
  3. Sustainable port operations: This Special Issue also covers sustainable port operations, including the use of renewable energy sources, waste management, and sustainable logistics.
  4. Environmental impact assessment: This Special Issue includes studies on the environmental impact of maritime transportation, such as the impact of shipping on marine ecosystems and the effects of climate change on shipping.

Overall, this Special Issue provides a comprehensive overview of the latest research on sustainable maritime transportation and highlights the importance of sustainable practices in the maritime industry.

Dr. Xianhua Wu
Prof. Dr. Jian Wu
Dr. Lang Xu
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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18 pages, 2406 KiB  
Article
Research on Carbon Intensity Prediction Method for Ships Based on Sensors and Meteorological Data
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2023, 11(12), 2249; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11122249 - 28 Nov 2023
Viewed by 317
Abstract
The Carbon Intensity Index (CII) exerts a substantial impact on the operations and valuation of international shipping vessels. Accurately predicting the CII of ships could help ship operators dynamically evaluate the possible CII grate of a ship at the end of the year [...] Read more.
The Carbon Intensity Index (CII) exerts a substantial impact on the operations and valuation of international shipping vessels. Accurately predicting the CII of ships could help ship operators dynamically evaluate the possible CII grate of a ship at the end of the year and choose appropriate methods to improve its CII grade to meet the IMO requirement with minimum cost. This study developed and compared five CII predicting models with multiple data sources. It integrates diverse data sources, including Automatic Identification System (AIS) data, sensor data, meteorological data, and sea state data from 2022, and extracts 21 relevant features for the vessel CII prediction. Five machine learning methods, including Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Support Vector Regression (SVR), Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO), Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and Random Forest (RF), are employed to construct the CII prediction model, which is then applied to a 2400 TEU container ship. Features such as the mean period of total swell, mean period of wind waves, and seawater temperature were considered for inclusion as inputs in the model. The results reveal significant correlations between cumulative carbon emissions intensity and features like cumulative distance, seawater temperature, wave period, and swell period. Among these, the strongest correlations are observed with cumulative distance and seawater temperature, having correlation coefficients of 0.45 and 0.34, respectively. Notably, the ANN model demonstrates the highest accuracy in CII prediction, with an average absolute error of 0.0336, whereas the LASSO model exhibits the highest error of 0.2817. Similarly, the ANN model provides more accurate annual CII ratings for the vessel. Consequently, the ANN model proves to be the most suitable choice for cumulative CII prediction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on the Sustainable Maritime Transportation)
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20 pages, 1457 KiB  
Article
Exploring Drivers Shaping the Choice of Alternative-Fueled New Vessels
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2023, 11(10), 1896; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11101896 - 29 Sep 2023
Viewed by 613
Abstract
The urgent imperative for maritime decarbonization has driven shipowners to embrace alternative marine fuels. Using a robust orderbook dataset spanning from January 2020 to July 2023 (encompassing 4712 vessels, 281 shipyards, and 967 shipping companies), four distinct multinomial logit models were developed. These [...] Read more.
The urgent imperative for maritime decarbonization has driven shipowners to embrace alternative marine fuels. Using a robust orderbook dataset spanning from January 2020 to July 2023 (encompassing 4712 vessels, 281 shipyards, and 967 shipping companies), four distinct multinomial logit models were developed. These models, comprising a full-sample model and specialized ones for container vessels, dry bulk carriers, and tankers, aim to identify the key determinants influencing shipowners’ choices of alternative fuels when ordering new vessels. It is interesting to find that alternative fuels (e.g., liquefied natural gas) are the most attractive choice for gas ships and ro-ro carriers; others prefer to use conventional fuels. Furthermore, this study reveals that shipowners’ choices of new fuels significantly correlate with their nationality. While it is well-established that economic factors influence shipowners’ choices for new ship fuel solutions, the impacts of bunker costs, freight rates, and CO2 emission allowance prices remain relatively limited. It is evident that the policies of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to reduce carbon emissions have increased the demand for building new energy ships. This research contributes to bridging research gaps by shedding light on the intricate interplay of factors that influence shipowners’ preferences for alternative marine fuels amidst global regulatory shifts. It also offers valuable insights for policymakers aiming to incentivize shipowners to transition towards sustainable energy sources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on the Sustainable Maritime Transportation)
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26 pages, 1552 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Readiness of Ships and Ports to Bunker and Use Alternative Fuels: A Case Study from Brazil
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2023, 11(10), 1856; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11101856 - 24 Sep 2023
Viewed by 1656
Abstract
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has recently revised its strategy for shipping decarbonization, deepening the ambition to reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The accomplishment of this strategy requires the large-scale deployment of alternative maritime fuels, whose diversity and technical characteristics impose [...] Read more.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has recently revised its strategy for shipping decarbonization, deepening the ambition to reduce annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The accomplishment of this strategy requires the large-scale deployment of alternative maritime fuels, whose diversity and technical characteristics impose transition challenges. While several studies address the production of these fuels, a notable gap lies in the analysis of the required adaptations in vessels and ports for their usage. This study aims to fill this gap with a comprehensive review of material compatibility, storage in ports/vessels, and bunkering technology. First, we analyze key aspects of port/vessel adaptation: physical and chemical properties; energy conversion for propulsion; fuel feeding and storage; and bunkering procedures. Then, we perform a maturity assessment, placing each studied fuel on the technological readiness scale, revealing the most promising options regarding infrastructure adaptability. Finally, we develop a case study from Brazil, whose economy is grounded on maritime exports. The findings indicate that multi-product ports may have the potential to serve as multi-fuel hubs, while the remaining ports are inclined to specific fuels. In terms of vessel categories, we find that oil tankers, chemical ships, and gas carriers are most ready for conversion in the short term. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on the Sustainable Maritime Transportation)
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24 pages, 327 KiB  
Article
Optimal Ship Deployment and Sailing Speed under Alternative Fuels
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2023, 11(9), 1809; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11091809 - 16 Sep 2023
Viewed by 602
Abstract
The European Union (EU) has implemented a sub-quota of 2% for renewable marine fuels to be utilized by vessels operating within its jurisdiction, effective starting from 2034. This progressive policy signifies a significant leap towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development. However, [...] Read more.
The European Union (EU) has implemented a sub-quota of 2% for renewable marine fuels to be utilized by vessels operating within its jurisdiction, effective starting from 2034. This progressive policy signifies a significant leap towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development. However, it also presents notable challenges for shipping companies, particularly in terms of fuel costs. In order to support shipping companies in devising optimal strategies within the framework of this new policy, this study proposes a mixed-integer linear programming model. This model aims to determine the optimal decisions for fuel choice, sailing speed and the number of vessels on various routes. Furthermore, we showcase the adaptability of our model in response to fluctuations in fuel prices, relevant vessel costs, and the total fleet size of vessels. Through its innovative insights, this research provides invaluable guidance for optimal decision-making processes within shipping companies operating under the new EU policy, enabling them to minimize their total costs effectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on the Sustainable Maritime Transportation)
26 pages, 8193 KiB  
Article
Feasibility Assessment of Alternative Clean Power Systems onboard Passenger Short-Distance Ferry
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2023, 11(9), 1735; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11091735 - 02 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 712
Abstract
In order to promote low-carbon fuels such as hydrogen to decarbonize the maritime sector, it is crucial to promote clean fuels and zero-emission propulsion systems in demonstrative projects and to showcase innovative technologies such as fuel cells in vessels operating in local public [...] Read more.
In order to promote low-carbon fuels such as hydrogen to decarbonize the maritime sector, it is crucial to promote clean fuels and zero-emission propulsion systems in demonstrative projects and to showcase innovative technologies such as fuel cells in vessels operating in local public transport that could increase general audience acceptability thanks to their showcase potential. In this study, a short sea journey ferry used in the port of Genova as a public transport vehicle is analyzed to evaluate a ”zero emission propulsion” retrofitting process. In the paper, different types of solutions (batteries, proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)) and fuels (hydrogen, ammonia, natural gas, and methanol) are investigated to identify the most feasible technology to be implemented onboard according to different aspects: ferry daily journey and scheduling, available volumes and spaces, propulsion power needs, energy storage/fuel tank capacity needed, economics, etc. The paper presents a multi-aspect analysis that resulted in the identification of the hydrogen-powered PEMFC as the best clean power system to guarantee, for this specific case study, a suitable retrofitting of the vessel that could guarantee a zero-emission journey. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on the Sustainable Maritime Transportation)
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18 pages, 1864 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Maritime Transportation Operations with Emission Trading
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2023, 11(9), 1647; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11091647 - 23 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 645
Abstract
The European Union (EU) has recently approved the inclusion of shipping in its Emissions Trading System, aiming to foster sustainable development within the shipping industry. While this new policy represents a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions, it also poses challenges for shipping [...] Read more.
The European Union (EU) has recently approved the inclusion of shipping in its Emissions Trading System, aiming to foster sustainable development within the shipping industry. While this new policy represents a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions, it also poses challenges for shipping companies, particularly in terms of operation costs. To assist shipping companies in devising optimal strategies under the new policy, this study proposes new techniques to determine the optimal solutions for sailing speed and the number of ships on the route, covering both EU and non-EU areas. Additionally, we demonstrate how to adjust these optimal decisions in response to changes in charged fees, fuel prices, and weekly operational costs of ships. This research offers innovative insights into the optimal decision-making process for shipping companies under the new EU policy and serves as a valuable decision-making tool to minimize total costs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on the Sustainable Maritime Transportation)
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Review

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26 pages, 8767 KiB  
Review
A Systematic Literature Review of Maritime Transportation Safety Management
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2023, 11(12), 2311; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11122311 - 06 Dec 2023
Viewed by 431
Abstract
Maritime transportation plays a critical role in global trade, and studies on maritime transportation safety management are of great significance to the sustainable development of the maritime industry. Consequently, there has been an increasing trend recently in studies on maritime transportation safety management, [...] Read more.
Maritime transportation plays a critical role in global trade, and studies on maritime transportation safety management are of great significance to the sustainable development of the maritime industry. Consequently, there has been an increasing trend recently in studies on maritime transportation safety management, especially in terms of safety risk analysis and emergency management. Therefore, the general idea of this article is to provide a detailed literature review of maritime transportation safety management based on 186 articles in the Web of Science (WOS) database published from 2011 to 2022. The purposes of this article are as follows: (1) to provide a statistics-based description and conduct a network-based bibliometric analysis on the basis of the collected articles; (2) to summarize the methodologies/technologies employed in maritime transportation safety management spatiotemporally; and (3) to propose four potential research perspectives in terms of maritime transportation safety management. Based on the findings and insights obtained from the bibliometric and systematic review, the development of a resilient maritime transportation system could be facilitated by means of data- or intelligence-driven technologies, such as scenario representation, digital twinning, and data simulation. In addition, the issues facing intelligent maritime shipping greatly challenge the current maritime safety management system due to the co-existence of intelligent and non-intelligent maritime operation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on the Sustainable Maritime Transportation)
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Other

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26 pages, 19252 KiB  
Technical Note
Port Digital Twin Development for Decarbonization: A Case Study Using the Pusan Newport International Terminal
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2023, 11(9), 1777; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11091777 - 11 Sep 2023
Viewed by 967
Abstract
The maritime industry is a major carbon emission contributor. Therefore, the global maritime industry puts every effort into reducing carbon emissions in the shipping chain, which includes vessel fleets, ports, terminals, and hinterland transportation. A representative example is the carbon emission reduction standard [...] Read more.
The maritime industry is a major carbon emission contributor. Therefore, the global maritime industry puts every effort into reducing carbon emissions in the shipping chain, which includes vessel fleets, ports, terminals, and hinterland transportation. A representative example is the carbon emission reduction standard mandated by the International Maritime Organization for international sailing ships to reduce carbon emissions this year. Among the decarbonization tools, the most immediate solution for reducing carbon emissions is to reduce vessel waiting time near ports and increase operational efficiency. The operation efficiency improvement in maritime stakeholders’ port operations can be achieved using data. This data collection and operational efficiency improvement can be realized using a digital twin. This study develops a digital twin that measures and reduces carbon emissions using the collaborative operation of maritime stakeholders. In this study, the authors propose a data structure and backbone scheduling algorithm for a port digital twin. The interactive scheduling between a port and its vessels is investigated using the digital twin. The digital twin’s interactive scheduling for the proposed model improved predictions of vessel arrival time and voyage carbon emissions. The result of the proposed digital twin model is compared to an actual operation case from the Busan New Port in September 2022, which shows that the proposed model saves over 75 % of the carbon emissions compared with the case. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on the Sustainable Maritime Transportation)
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