Adapted by:
Alejandro Alcolea
WriterWriter at Xataka. I studied education and music, but since 2014 I've been writing about my passion: video games and technology. I specialize in product analysis, photography, and video. My body is 70% coffee.
Karen Alfaro
WriterCommunications professional with a decade of experience as a copywriter, proofreader, and editor. As a travel and science journalist, I've collaborated with several print and digital outlets around the world. I'm passionate about culture, music, food, history, and innovative technologies.
Many countries are prioritizing transportation electrification and seeking alternatives to traditional combustion. While some embrace electric cars and aviation explores sustainable fuels, cargo shipping remains heavily dependent on diesel. Despite handling the majority of global trade, it’s often overlooked in sustainability discussions.
But one company is working to change that with an age-old solution: sails.
The environmental cost of shipping. Cargo shipping moves the majority of global trade but is also a major contributor to pollution. The sector contributes approximately 3% of worldwide carbon dioxide emissions and is a major source of nitrogen and sulfur oxides.
In fact, it accounts for 15% of nitrogen oxides and 13% of sulfur oxides emitted by human activities. The primary culprit is the fuel used—high in sulfur and heavy metals—yet international regulations allow ships to emit up to 500 times more pollutants than land vehicles.
Reintroducing sails for propulsion. In an effort to curb emissions, companies have implemented various measures, such as reducing ship speeds, adopting cleaner fuels, and incorporating onboard carbon capture systems. Some have turned to alternative propulsion technologies, like the Yara Birkeland, an autonomous vessel powered by solar panels. Another ambitious project comes from the British company Windship Technology, which aims to harness an ancient but effective solution: sails.
The “Tesla of the seas.” Windship Technology’s True Zero Emission project proposes a groundbreaking ship propulsion system that eliminates carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and other pollutants. The company envisions a diesel-electric hybrid vessel equipped with carbon sinks to achieve true zero emissions.
The optimized hull would help minimize water resistance, and advanced software would map optimal routes using weather forecasts, ocean currents, and sea conditions. However, the project’s defining feature is its innovative sail system.
21st century sails. Unlike traditional sails that resist wind to propel a boat against the current, Windship’s design features multiple masts with three aerodynamic wings that capture wind energy to complement an electric motor. Each mast can reach up to 157 feet in height and adjusts dynamically to maximize efficiency.
Challenges and feasibility. While the concept is promising, no commercial vessel has yet been designed with this system as its foundation. The primary challenge is integration—container ships store cargo on their decks, making it difficult to accommodate large sails without compromising cargo space and port operations.
Windship Technology claims its masts can be folded to facilitate docking and maneuvering, with a lifespan exceeding 25 years. The technology has piqued the interest of DNV, a leading maritime insurance and certification organization.
Potential for superyachts. Although container ships are the primary culprits of marine pollution, Windship’s sail technology may first gain traction in the luxury yacht industry. Windship chief technology officer David Barrow notes that while superyachts are currently exempt from strict environmental regulations, they may soon face decarbonization targets set for 2050. A 239-feet yacht outfitted with three 114-feet masts could match the performance of conventional engines, provided the yacht’s design is adapted for better stability and aerodynamics.
A return to traditional sailboats. Windship Technology isn’t alone in its pursuit of wind-powered shipping. French company Towt has taken a more traditional approach, constructing modern sailboats specifically for commercial transport. The company recently completed a pilot voyage with Anemos, a ship featuring carbon-fiber masts, remote-controlled traditional sails, and two diesel-electric support engines. Towt plans to expand its fleet to eight vessels, estimating an annual transport capacity of 200,000 tons of goods while cutting 40,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.
The Amemos
Whether through high-tech sails or conventional sailboats, the shipping industry must embrace alternatives to fossil fuels to meet global decarbonization targets. As stricter emissions regulations loom, wind propulsion may provide a viable, cost-effective, and sustainable solution for a cleaner future in maritime transportation.
Images | Windship Technology | Towt
Related | China Launches a New Type of Lifeguard: Autonomous Boats Equipped with Cameras and AI Systems
Log in to leave a comment