Earlier this month, a groundbreaking voyage commenced from the French port city of Le Havre. The vessel, named Anemos, is not just any ordinary cargo ship. It’s a massive sailing cargo ship, a testament to the burgeoning field of sustainable shipping.
The shipping industry, notorious for its reliance on fossil fuels, is responsible for approximately three percent of global emissions. This colossal figure has spurred innovation and a search for greener alternatives. TOWT, a French shipbuilder, has taken a significant step in this direction with Anemos.
Anemos is the largest sailing cargo ship ever constructed. Its impressive dimensions, measuring 265 long, 49 wide, and 206 feet tall, make it a formidable sight. However, its most remarkable feature is its environmental impact. TOWT claims that its sailing cargo ships have a carbon footprint that is merely one-tenth of a conventional container ship.
The ship’s innovative design eliminates the need for human sailors to adjust its sails. A sophisticated system of pulleys, actuators, and sensors automates this process. As a result, Anemos produces less than 2 grams of carbon emissions per ton of cargo per kilometer, a stark contrast to the over 20 grams emitted by a regular container ship.
While wind power is the primary source of propulsion, Anemos also has backup diesel-electric engines for situations where wind conditions are unfavorable. This hybrid approach ensures reliability and flexibility.
TOWT’s ambitious goal is to build a fleet of at least eight ships. These vessels could transport a combined 200,000 tons of goods annually to countries like Colombia, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Brazil. This would not only reduce emissions but also support sustainable trade practices.
Anemos’ journey to New York is a historic milestone. It signifies a shift towards a more environmentally friendly future for the shipping industry. As the vessel sails across the Atlantic, it carries with it the hope of a cleaner and greener planet.
Reference- New Scientist, Transport & Environment website, Futurism, The Verge