The port of Ravenna is set to welcome a state-of-the-art eco-friendly boat by June, aimed at cleaning plastics from the Candiano Canal. This innovative vessel is the first of its kind in Italian ports and will operate under the project “Green Ports.”
Key Features of the Eco-Friendly Boat
The new boat is designed for efficiency and versatility. It can operate for up to eight consecutive hours and navigate shallow waters. Remarkably, it can pass under the mobile bridge of the Candiano Canal.
- Powered by Renewable Energy: Completely electric, the boat produces zero emissions.
- Plastic Collection: Capable of collecting macroplastics larger than 5 millimeters, as well as floating and submerged solid waste.
- Oil Spill Response: Equipped to handle hydrocarbon spills.
- Transport Capacity: Can carry up to ten individuals, including environmental technicians and operators.
Funding and Project Development
The construction of the boat was made possible by approximately €2 million in funding from the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security. This initiative falls under the broader “Green Ports” project, supported by resources from the PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan).
Construction and Compliance
The Morri F.M. shipyard in Bellaria has been awarded the contract to build this vessel. This shipyard has prior experience creating eco-friendly boats for waste collection in other Italian ports, including Venice and Naples.
Environmental Monitoring and Sustainability Efforts
In addition to waste collection, the boat will play a crucial role in monitoring water and air quality in the Candiano Canal. The PNRR mandates that this vessel be tested and operational by June 30.
Additional Initiatives
Further funding of over €1.14 million is allocated for the purchase of electric-powered dock machinery. The AdSP (Port System Authority) is prepared to cover up to 100% of costs for equipment like cranes or forklifts, with a maximum grant of €300,000 per project.
This initiative sits within a larger framework aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability across port operations. Investment in digital transformation and cybersecurity measures is also encouraged under this program.
