The once cavalier approach to seawater usage is undergoing a shift by necessity, and not just because of regulatory restrictions. Given increased public scrutiny, customers are demanding higher performance and quality from their vendors. “We put a lot of effort into ensuring that our customers can meet the required standards with our systems in day- to-day operation,” states Hamann’s Jeuthe. “That is often a completely different matter than obtaining type certification from the authorities.”
Customers see the impact the maritime industry is having on the environment. “Pollution to our oceans is being better controlled and awareness is increased among both passengers and operators,” says Bache, in a nod to the increased attention toward environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues. As such, environmental stewardship not only assures compliance with applicable laws but becomes critical in developing a positive reputation and drawing in new customers.
RISING DIGITAL TIDE
The entire maritime industry is fixated on the evolution toward carbon- neutral operation and improving overall efficiency. Compared to net-zero campaigns shoreside, wastewater treatment technology is evolving along the very same path but with a focus both below the waterline and above the stacks. The ultimate goal is not only zero emissions but zero discharges.
With this objective in mind, VOW is pursuing technologies that replace traditional incinerators. Using proprietary hydrolysis and pyrolysis processes, its Scanship subsidiary is developing a low-carbon method for handling the sludge generated from wastewater, food waste and garbage disposal. Recycling and recirculating allow for extracted water to be further treated in the connected subsystems while the resultant dry biomass can be converted to green energy and biochar for a myriad of applications both onboard and shoreside.
Hamann’s Jeuthe points to the rising digital tide as a further driver of wastewater treatment technology: “More efficiency will go hand-in- hand with more complex process engineering as well as increased sensor technology, automation, connectivity and subsystem integration.” He expresses confidence in Hamann’s readiness for a new future, “We are already building up human resources, know-how and production capabilities to drive this increased digitalization.”
For its part, Atlantium’s Rozenberg points to his company’s history of successful innovation, global network of service providers and thousands of existing installations: “We’re focused on continuing to deliver optimal performance and ROI and are always looking forward to meeting the unique demands of the next challenge.”
WISER STEWARDSHIP
The earth’s massive volume of seawater is increasingly viewed as an irreplaceable ecosystem, and the maritime industry – recognizing its essential responsibility – is working diligently to shed its negative environmental characterization, whether deserved or not.
Alongside advances in fuels and energy storage, wastewater treatment systems play a critical role in reconfirming the industry’s perspective and reputation as the most efficient means of transport per ton of cargo. Using current and developing water treatment technologies, it will have a significant and beneficial impact on the environment as well as on other industries.
Chad Fuhrmann is the founder and owner of REvolution Consulting X Engineering.
This article first appeared on the Maritime Executive website and is published here with their permission: https://
www.maritime-executive.com
The Report • June 2022 • Issue 100 | 57
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