MARTECH 2026

Maritime transport is essential for global trade, but it generates significant emissions, especially in port areas. In this sector, tugboats play a key role in vessel maneuvering, but conventional methods for estimating their emissions are inaccurate. Through a methodology that integrates AIS data, on-board measurement campaigns, and interviews with the crew, it has been observed that they operate most of the time with very low engine loads and long waiting periods, leading to avoidable fuel consumption. Based on this analysis, improved models have been developed to identify maneuvering phases and estimate real power. This approach allows for the creation of more accurate emissions inventories and opens the door to real-time optimization systems, providing port authorities with effective tools to reduce local pollution and improve the sustainability of operations.

Check - Article - Strategies for mitigating tugboat emissions using a data-drive approach