Innovative Solutions for mitigating the environmental impact of waterborne transport in marine and aquatic Ecosystems (ZEWT Partnership)

Di cosa tratta questo bando?

The call funds research projects that assess and reduce the impact of shipping and inland navigation on aquatic ecosystems, especially risks from new low- and zero-carbon fuels and accidental spills.

Cosa finanzia questo bando?

Scope

This Horizon Research and Innovation Action evaluates, forecasts and mitigates the impact of waterborne transport on seas, rivers, lakes and port areas, with a focus on new risks from renewable low- and zero-carbon fuels, including accidental spills.

Expected activities

• Evaluate and forecast environmental impacts of waterborne transport, especially of renewable low- and zero-carbon fuels and related technologies; testing and experimental work on spills may be included.
• Develop and demonstrate response scenarios, abatement technologies, procedures and guidelines for uncontrolled fuel releases in marine and inland waters and ports.
• Model water and air pollution sources by ship type and service.
• Develop and demonstrate cost-effective abatement and mitigation systems, with demonstration at TRL 5.
• Identify training and skills needs, including emergency response preparedness.
• Improve the resilience of European waters and involve environmental, industry and academic associations.

Expected outcomes

Better understanding of future environmental impacts of waterborne transport, innovative prevention and mitigation systems, fewer and less harmful accidents involving new fuels, and progress towards good environmental and ecological status of European waters. Activities are expected to reach TRL 5 by the end of the project.

Cosa ci si aspetta dalle proposte?

• Actions should address all listed aspects.
• Funded projects are expected to report results to the ZEWT partnership.

Quando scade il bando?

14 aprile 2027 (160 giorni)

14 April 2027 (single-stage submission). Planned opening date: 15 December 2026.