Projects

Natural solutions are increasingly used to protect our coasts from the ferocity of the sea. However, a lot of sand needs to be extracted for such solutions, which affects the marine ecosystem. SUSANA aims to map both ecosystems and the effects they experience.

The EVERBLUE project aims to investigate in detail the effects of wind on modern container ships moored in realistic, busy port environments. To this end, wind tunnel tests, CFD simulations and dynamic mooring analyses will be used.

Belgium was one of the first countries to make a deliberate choice for offshore wind energy. The first installations are gradually approaching the end of their lifetime. The OWiDEx project wants to position Belgium as a pioneer in the decommissioning of offshore wind turbines.

Offshore wind turbines are constructed around the globe. The foundations of such wind turbines are quickly colonised by filter-feeding animals. The OUTFLOW project investigates the functional impact of a high concentration of these animals on the marine ecosystem.

As we strive for climate neutrality, our seas and oceans are becoming more and more vital. With the growth of economic activities at sea, competition for marine space is intensifying. The North C Neutral project aims to develop a North Sea model that helps optimise the use of our seas.

The shipping industry is highly diverse and encompasses the carriage of goods by sea, along the coast and by inland waterways. A great deal of research is conducted into energy carriers and powertrains to make vessels more environmentally friendly. In this context, the CHyPS project has recently been launched.

Marine ecosystems deliver numerous benefits to society. They are key to integrated and sustainable marine development. WABESCO will develop a universal, adaptable and relevant evaluation tool for all actors and projects working towards sustainable blue growth.

Within the context of a circular economy, companies are increasingly looking for valuable applications for biomass. It is important that we are able to efficiently separate the different components of biomass. The EffSep project is strongly focused on this.

An offshore wind farm entails many maintenance costs. The partners within the SMARAGD project are developing an autonomous vessel to transport goods to and from the wind turbines. The aim is to reduce unnecessary costs.

Businesses in the blue economy need useful and practical indicators to evaluate their impact and dependence on the marine ecosystem. The MEsP project is aimed at developing a tool that enables companies to assess their performances in connection with marine ecosystems.

This feasibility study forms the basis of the implementation of hydrogen as a clean fuel in marine shipping in Flanders, responding to two complex challenges: reducing shipping emissions and adapting port infrastructure to this reduction.