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UK government to provide £8 million for smart shipping projects
Organisations can apply for the Smart Shipping Acceleration Fund to use AI for projects that make UK waters safer, operations smoother and air cleaner.
Maritime Minister Lord Davies was in Southampton on 22 April 2024 to announce the £8 million funding boost to drive maritime innovation and harness the benefits of AI to boost productivity. It is hoped the funding will support feasibility studies for cutting-edge technology.
From self-driving boats to streamlined port operations, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other innovations will potentially boost the economy and support coastal communities. The Smart Shipping Acceleration Fund will kickstart feasibility studies to develop smart shipping technologies such as AI, robotics, and autonomous vessels.
Maritime Minister, Lord Davies, said: “Using AI and cutting-edge technology to make boats smarter and transform port operations is part of our plan to decarbonise shipping, enhance safety for our seafarers and help grow the economy. AI has the potential to revolutionise the sector, create jobs and support the economy.”
Logistics UK’s Deputy Director – Public Affairs, Ben Garrat said of the announcement: “The logistics sector is highly innovative, employing data and technology-led approaches to drive efficiency, customer service, safety and emissions reduction.
"Maritime decarbonisation is a major challenge for the sector to address, but funding the trial and implementation of possible solutions can be a barrier. This government-backed fund is an opportunity for maritime businesses to work with partners to develop new solutions for decarbonisation which, without this funding support, would struggle to achieve commercial viability.”
Published On: 02/05/2024 14:00:00
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News In Brief
Port of Tyne to ‘pioneer’ 5G smart port operations network
The Port of Tyne has been awarded a £1.159m contract with South Tyneside Council to develop its harbour-wide private 5G network. Through use of 5G platforms, the project will look to demonstrate how better digital connectivity can help to drive growth. It will involve 5G cameras and internet of things (IoT) sensors to inspect the port estate, boosting efficiency and reducing fuel usage.
The Port of Tyne delivers bespoke services for the green energy sector, supporting leading companies in the automotive transition, handling specialised bulk and containerised products, alongside delivery logistics and assisting growing passenger numbers via what it says is the regionally important international passenger terminal.
Overall, the port calculates that it adds £700 million to the north east economy, supporting 11,000 jobs directly and indirectly as one of the UK’s largest trust ports. It is said to be entirely self-financing and runs on a commercial basis, reinvesting all of its profits back into facilities along the River Tyne.
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