TransNav2025

Port pollution comes from merchant and auxiliary vessels, such as pilot boats and port tugboats, whose emissions are related to their engine operating modes. Cubic speed-to-power methods for estimating emissions are inaccurate for port tugboats, which operate at low speeds. This study validates empirical rules based on the experiences of tugboat pilots, using data from a port tugboat in Barcelona monitored during 40 maneuvers in April 2023. The results show that applying low-load adjustment factors during low-speed operations reduces estimation errors and emissions. Optimizing engine load during tugboat operations can minimize port emissions, benefiting both people and the environment.

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