The UK is set to improve maritime travel by introducing “green corridors,” which will help create cleaner, zero-emission shipping routes between key European destinations
These corridors, funded by up to £9 million from the government, will enable sustainable travel and promote eco-friendly fuels, contributing to the decarbonisation of the shipping industry.
Green shipping routes
Recent announcements by Maritime Minister Mike Kane looked at plans for new shipping routes connecting the Port of Tyne to Ijmuiden in the Netherlands and Holyhead to Dublin.
Other routes to Norway and Denmark are also in the works, with leading organisations to be revealed soon. These initiatives come from the UK’s commitment to green shipping, which was emphasised during the Clydebank Declaration at COP26.
These corridors are expected to create green jobs and strengthen the economy. The funding is part of the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition, which hopes to drive innovation in maritime technologies and practices.
Sustainable travel
Key stakeholders are optimistic about the impact of this funding. For example, the Port of Tyne plans to enhance its infrastructure to accommodate electrification and refuelling for clean-powered vessels.
This infrastructure development is set to reduce carbon emissions by up to 850,000 tonnes annually.
Stena Line is also trying to establish a green corridor between Wales and Ireland. The company is assessing infrastructure needs at Holyhead Port to facilitate fossil-free shipping to Dublin, demonstrating a collaborative approach among ferry operators and partners to enhance sustainability in maritime travel.
Net Zero in the maritime industry
In addition to the green corridors, the government will allocate up to £8 million to 30 projects focused on developing smart technologies in the maritime sector. Innovations like autonomous systems, AI, and robotics will play an important role in positioning the UK as a leader in maritime decarbonisation, promoting local job creation and economic growth.
This funding is part of the UK SHORE program, which hopes to achieve net-zero targets in the maritime industry through innovative technological solutions. With a total investment of £206 million, the initiative highlights the urgency of decarbonising maritime transport, addressing both environmental and economic challenges in the sector.
