Shipping usually only plays a subordinate role in the context of an energy system transformation, as can be seen in the current German energy transition. The shipping sector has a large share of the emissions. A study by the Federal Environment Agency shows that the carbon monoxide pollution from inland navigation is similar to the pollution from truck traffic and the fine dust and nitrogen oxide pollution from inland shipping is many times higher than the emissions caused by truck freight traffic. While other transport sectors are already working on various technologies and implementation options for CO2-neutral transport, the shipping industry is only just beginning to look for solutions.
Therefore, Schleswig-Holstein can play a pioneering role here due to its geographical location. According to the Federal Environment Agency, the North and Baltic Seas are among the most heavily traveled seas in the world. Two very busy shipping lanes run through Schleswig-Holstein, particularly the Kiel Canal, which in 2016, was used by more than 30,000 ships alone, as well as the Lower Elbe river.
The project aims to find holistic and systematic options for sustainable shipping in Schleswig-Holstein and aims to show opportunities for environmental and climate protection as well as the development of the regional economy against the background of the energy transition. The project, on the one hand, focuses on the external effects of ship emissions on the population of Schleswig-Holstein, and on the other hand, on the CO2 emissions caused and the climate protection potential of the various drive technologies.
The advancing climate change makes it necessary to act quickly in all sectors. As a pioneer, Schleswig-Holstein can build up an innovative maritime transport industry and maintain and strengthen the industry in the long term.