Maritime transport of goods and passengers is an indispensable business and a crucial driver of economic growth. However, the need for development must be balanced with the imperative to protect the marine environment, which is threatened by pollution from ships. The solution may lie in smart technologies and a new generation of professionals capable of managing them.

In 2023, more than 12 billion tons of goods were transported by sea worldwide. This means that about 90% of products by volume (70% by commercial value) are moved by ships. This massive industry represents more than 12% of global GDP, not to mention the business generated by passenger transport, with cruise ships leading the way. These figures highlight the fundamental role of maritime transport in international trade. However, they also reveal another aspect: the significant environmental impact of the maritime sector, particularly marine pollution. Ships emit large quantities of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), along with other pollutants like sulfur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). These emissions not only accelerate climate change but also harm the marine ecosystems and the health of coastal communities. In recent years, awareness about these issues has grown, along with a broader environmental consciousness. This trend has led industry professionals to deeply consider how to address the problem. In this context, smart technologies are becoming crucial for advancing sustainable maritime mobility. To fully leverage these innovations, it is essential not only to implement new technologies but also to develop skilled professionals who can lead this transformation.

The issue is undeniably complex, as maritime pollution attributable to transport includes numerous factors. The first significant issue is the emission of greenhouse gases and other substances that pollute the atmosphere. It is estimated that ships are responsible for about 3% of global CO2 emissions, in addition to sulfur oxides (linked to acid rain) and nitrogen oxides (which contribute to smog formation).
There is also the issue of discharging toxic or harmful substances into the water, such as ballast water, which is transported from one port to another, carrying various biological residues (both animal and plant) that can severely alter different ecosystems. Even more serious are cases of accidental oil or other fuel spills and the illegal discharge of chemicals, as well as the (also illegal) release of microplastics and solid waste.
Finally, it is important to mention two other forms of maritime pollution, less well-known but equally dangerous: thermal and acoustic pollution. The first case involves ships using seawater to cool engines, then releasing this heated water back into the marine environment. The increase in water temperature can alter local ecological balances, affecting marine life. As for noise pollution, it is important to consider that ships, especially large ones like tankers and cruise ships, generate intense underwater noise through their engines and propellers. This noise pollution can disrupt the communication, navigation, and reproduction of many marine species, particularly cetaceans, such as whales and dolphins.

Such a complex scenario requires innovative solutions. For this reason, the industry's efforts are primarily focused on smart technologies, which aim to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and minimize marine pollution. The areas of action are manifold, as summarized below:

  • Alternative propulsion and clean fuels: One thing is certain: the use of traditional fossil fuels is destined to be phased out or at least drastically reduced, both in maritime mobility and in all other forms. Among the possible alternatives are some lower-impact fuels, such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), which produces 20% less CO2, or low-sulfur fuels, which help remove sulfur oxides from exhaust gases. There are also electric-powered ships that use rechargeable batteries, representing a promising solution for reducing emissions, especially in port operations and short distances. Hybrid ships, which combine internal combustion engines with electric systems, optimize fuel consumption and reduce emissions.
  • Optimization of routes and energy management: Intelligent navigation systems, which use meteorological and oceanographic data to avoid adverse conditions and select more efficient routes, allow for the optimization of navigation paths, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. At the same time, IoT (Internet of Things) technologies and intelligent sensors enable real-time monitoring of a ship's energy consumption, optimizing energy use and identifying areas where waste can be reduced. These systems also aid in predictive maintenance, preventing breakdowns and improving operational efficiency.
  • Structural and energy innovations: Enhancing energy efficiency can also be achieved through innovations in ship design, such as more aerodynamic hulls, the use of lightweight materials, and specialized coatings that minimize water friction.
  • Another possible approach is the integration of solar panels and wind turbines onboard ships to generate renewable energy for powering onboard systems.
  • Reducing marine pollution: Finally, new smart technologies can play a crucial role in tackling marine pollution directly. This includes ballast water treatment systems, such as filtration and UV disinfection, which reduce the risk of introducing invasive species. Scrubbers, which remove pollutants from ship exhaust gases, particularly sulfur oxides, are also extremely effective. Modern ships are equipped with advanced systems for managing solid and liquid waste, and in some cases, they are implementing technologies to capture microplastics released during operations, such as particles from paint washing.

However, any technological innovation process requires professionals who are up to the new challenges, who can envision and manage it. The transition to more sustainable maritime mobility thus demands specific and advanced knowledge. The professionals of tomorrow will need to master a wide range of skills, from technical knowledge to environmental impact analysis, and even the management of complex projects that require an interdisciplinary approach.

In this context, academic institutions are called upon to play a fundamental role. Many universities are adapting their programs to meet this growing demand for specialized skills. Degree courses and master's programs dedicated to smart maritime mobility offer a mix of theory and practice, preparing students to face the real challenges of the sector.

A significant example of this trend is the master's degree program offered by the Università Iuav di VeneziaSustainable Transportation and Smart Maritime Mobility. This program is designed to train professionals capable of tackling the complex challenges of environmental sustainability in the maritime context. Characterized by a strong focus on technological innovation, the course combines different teachings, following a holistic vision and providing students with an interdisciplinary approach that is essential for operating in a rapidly evolving sector. Moreover, the program stands out not only for its educational approach but also for the opportunities it offers students to participate in applied research projects and international collaborations. These elements not only enrich the educational path but also prepare graduates to take on leadership roles in the sustainable transformation of the maritime sector. Career prospects for graduates are extremely promising, with strong demand for professionals who can lead the adoption of smart technologies and significantly contribute to reducing the environmental impact of maritime transport.