As the concept of autonomous shipping gains ground globally, UK ports are wasting no time in preparing for the advent in their waters – whenever that may be.
The British Ports Association (BPA) has launched a new initiative looking at the implications of autonomous shipping for UK ports, including a call for evidence from interested parties. Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) – which involve the automation of vessel and onboard processes – will significantly alter how ports and ships interface with each other.
The BPA, which represents the majority of UK port activity - including 85% of the shipping movements in and out of the country - is keen to explore what future shipping developments will mean for the sector.
“The prospect of seeing autonomous ships in UK ports is definitely on the horizon but there will be much to do to prepare ourselves. This includes the consideration for port and marine operations, regulatory frameworks, infrastructure and receptions facilities, land to vessel communications, and vessel safety,” says a BPA spokesman.
And while the association will draw on input from all its members, it will also draw on external expertise from specialists working in the marine and MASS sectors.
The myriad questions that need to be answered range from the physical and digital infrastructure ports will need to provide to receive autonomous vessels, and when ports in the UK are likely to see regular autonomous activities around its coastline, to what types of shipping activities could be the first to embrace autonomous shipping - short sea, bulks, unitised, or passenger.
These are all issues on which the shipping community at large will need to focus sooner rather than later.