In recent years, public concern about the environmental impacts of maritime shipping has increased. Maritime shipping is responsible for a considerable amount of total global CO2 emissions and air pollutants. And, if the current trends are not reversed, this situation will only worsen.

In 2009, CO2 emissions from maritime shipping activities were estimated to account for between 3% and 5% of total global CO2 emissions. In addition, estimates show that in 2050 maritime shipping will be responsible for 15% of total global CO2 emissions.

When it comes to protecting the environment, port communities are on the front lines. The combustion of high-sulfur-content marine fuels in port areas is a major contributor to air pollution and the associated impacts on human health and the environment. Local, national, and international regulations are putting increasing pressure on the maritime industries to control air pollution. This white paper examines shore connection technologies as a way to curb the air pollution generated by maritime shipping activities.