How the Fair Winds Collective is Steering Maritime Shipping Toward Sustainability
Check the Symposium on YouTube
Last Sunday, the coastal air in Den Helder carried a current of ambition, as the Fair Winds Collective, in partnership with Enkhuizen Nautical College and Dwarstuig, brought together sailors, scientists, policymakers and other interested parties for the Future of Sail symposium. Held at the Traditionele Schepen Beurs, the event underscored a common goal: transforming maritime shipping from a major carbon emitter to a trailblazer for sustainable practices, focused on sail cargo.
The day opened with a message from Paul van Ommen, who emphasized the urgent need for change across the industry. From there, a series of talks and panel discussions showcased how wind-assisted and zero-emission technologies are poised to reshape shipping practices, steering the industry towards a low-carbon future.
Setting Sail for Policy Change
Lucy Gilliam, a longtime environmental policy expert and co-founder of One Planet Shipping, brought the gravity of the industry’s climate impact to the fore. Known for her work with Rotterdam-based NGO Stichting One Planet Port and Brussels NGOs, Gilliam presented a stark reality: the industry requires a sweeping overhaul in policy to curb its carbon footprint. Gilliam’s message - that environmental goals can’t play second fiddle to convenience—resonated with the crowd and set a serious tone for the day’s discussions.
Adapting to Nature’s Rhythms
Following Gilliam, Marteyn Blok, lecturer meteology at Enkhuizen Nautical College, explored how shifting weather patterns impact navigation. By advocating for adaptability and resilience in shipping, Blok underscored that sustainability isn’t just about cleaner ships; it’s also about respecting natural rhythms and forging a balanced partnership with the elements.
Harnessing the Wind’s Power
Another one of the day’s highlights was a panel moderated by Peter Fokkens, bringing together prominent figures in wind-assisted ship propulsion: Gerard Dijkstra, Jorne Langelaan, Jerremy Fouriaux, and Martin Rosander. They tackled the technical and logistical challenges in wind-assisted cargo, spotlighting innovations that merge advanced engineering with the simplicity of wind power. For the crowd, it was an inspiring look into how heritage sailing methods can meet modern engineering to create a sustainable maritime future.
Charting Zero-Emission Routes Across the Atlantic
Stefan Ballard from Grain de Sail shared his pioneering work in establishing zero-emission ocean routes. Using traditional Atlantic paths, Grain de Sail proves that sustainability doesn’t have to conflict with trade. The vision of cargo ships crossing the ocean without adding to carbon emissions captured the imagination of many, hinting at a maritime sector that thrives without harming the planet.
Technology Driving Greener Practices
Rens Groot of Econowind presented Ventofoils, a wind-propulsion system that reduces fuel consumption and cuts emissions. Sleek and efficient, Ventofoils demonstrate how wind-assisted technology could transform a traditionally high-emission industry. The technology illustrates how rethinking propulsion can make meaningful strides in reducing maritime emissions.
Reflections on a Changing Maritime Landscape
To close the day, Maaike de Jong moderated a panel featuring Christiaan de Beukelaer, Lucy Gilliam, Marteyn Blok, and Jorne Langelaan. Discussing the economic, cultural, and technical impacts of WASP technology, panelists examined how wind power could reshape the industry’s future. De Beukelaer’s reflections from his voyage on the Avontuur, detailed in his book Trade Winds, urged the audience to see sustainability as a vital investment for both the environment and the industry’s resilience.
The day wasn’t just about innovation; it also marked a milestone for Dwarstuig, celebrating 25 years of dedication to maritime heritage and traditional sailing.
Heartfelt thanks to organizers Cosmo Wassenaar, Peggy Engelmann and the entire team for their dedication and commitment to a sustainable maritime future. As attendees departed, the event left a tangible sense of purpose in the air. The Fair Winds Collective, with its strong commitment to sustainable maritime practices, continues to steer the industry toward a cleaner, more responsible future - one powered, quite literally, by the wind.
#FairWindsCollective #FutureOfSail #GreenShipping #WindPropulsion #ClimateAction #CleanOceans #TraditionalSailing
Program: “The Future of Sail”
10:25 | Welcome by Paul van Ommen
10:30 - 11:15 | Lucy Gilliam: One planet, one shipping industry - Navigating climate change and overconsumption
11:30 - 12:15 | Marteyn Blok: Changing weather patterns and their impact on navigation
12:30 - 1:30 | Interview with Gerard Dijkstra, Jorne Langelaan, Martin Rossander: Challenges on the path to wind-assisted sailing cargo
1:45 - 2:15 | Grain de Sail (online): Organic products transported by sail
2:45 - 3:15 | Rens Groot (Econowind): Ventofoils and their role in decarbonization
3:30 - 4:30 | Panel Discussion with Christiaan de Beukelaer, Lucy Gilliam, Marteyn Blok, Jorne Langelaan: The urgency of Wind Assisted Ship Propulsion, facilitated by Maaike de Jong
Check the Symposium on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/live/j--_qzCRLHI
24-11-12, Text Maaike & Pics Peggy