ZEAS project kick-off meeting marked the beginning of an ambitious journey towards zero-emission maritime solutions

The kick-off meeting for the ZEAS project took place on January 22, 2024, at Hotel Ambasador in Opatija, Croatia. This event brought together all the project partners, as well as experts dedicated to creating innovative and sustainable solutions for zero-emission maritime transport.

The meeting began with a welcome speech from Teuta Duletić, CEO of Lürssen Design Center Kvarner, and an outline of the event’s objectives by Dražen Debelić, ZEAS Project Manager. The diverse consortium of partners, including academic institutions, maritime companies, technology leaders, and policy experts, introduced their roles in the project, underlining the collaboration’s interdisciplinary strength.

Anna Karamigkou, Project Officer from the European Climate, Infrastructure, and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) delivered an insightful presentation outlining the project’s alignment with European climate goals and administrative frameworks.

Throughout the two-day event, participants engaged in in-depth discussions focused on the ZEAS project’s technical and operational goals. They explored the development of hydrogen technology, addressing challenges related to hydrogen-powered ship design, onboard storage, bunkering systems, and the necessary infrastructure. Presentations also covered the detailed objectives, timelines, and deliverables for each work package, with a focus on ship design, environmental studies, and digital technologies. Additionally, task-specific action plans and deadlines were established to ensure the project’s efficient coordination and successful delivery.

The consortium also emphasized safety, environmental considerations, and the integration of digital technologies, reflecting the project’s comprehensive approach to innovation in maritime sustainability.