Download: ECMAR MARITIME STRATEGIC RESEARCH AGENDA

Executive Summary:

This document outlines the technology challenges and opportunities facing the European maritime transport sector up to 2030 and beyond. It provides recommendations for future research and innovation (R&I) priorities, particularly for FP10 (2028-2034).

Key Focus Areas:

• Current Challenges and Opportunities: The report analyzes the European maritime transport sector within the global economy, highlighting challenges and opportunities. It emphasizes the ECMAR vision for enhancing competitiveness and sustainability, including the importance of low TRL research, the EU Blue Economy, digitalization for decarbonization, and new skills and jobs.

• Priorities for FP10: The document identifies new priorities for FP10, considering the evolving R&I landscape in the EU. It addresses short-to-medium term challenges in ship design for green and digital operations, including energy efficiency, digitalization, renewables, climate change impacts, safety and circularity, underwater technologies, and nuclear energy. It also emphasizes workforce training and a new business model integrating RDI.

• Long-Term Vision (ECMAR 2050): The report presents a long-term vision, focusing on key aspects impacted by 2050: energy transition, digitalization and automation, and supply chain and logistics. It highlights digitalization's critical role in increasing competitiveness, including smart shipping, sensor technology, cybersecurity, and climate impact monitoring. It also underscores the importance of the maritime industry for a thriving Blue Economy.

• Recommendations: The document concludes with recommendations for deploying and implementing game-changing maritime research in FP10.