We are pleased to announce that our work has been featured in the January/February 2025 edition of Eurofish International Organisation Magazine.
The article highlights our commitment to advancing sustainability in the Baltic and North Sea, emphasizing our approach to integrating technological innovation while navigating an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. As the industry evolves, we remain dedicated to developing solutions that promote both environmental responsibility and economic viability in the fisheries sector.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Eurofish Magazine for recognizing our efforts. We look forward to continuing our work in shaping the future of sustainable fisheries.
On 7-8 November, scientists of Seaglow’s partner AZTI travelled to Võiste, Estonia, to install the data acquisition system named SIMUL. The installations were carried out on a small-scale fishing vessel that fishes for Baltic herring, with a fishing technique known as “kakuami”, in which two boats work together to catch the herring inside the traps. A typical fishing trip consists of visiting different traps previously set at sea and lasts 4-5 hours.
Picture 1 – Estonian small-scale fishing vessel and fishing activity of the vessel
The installed acquisition system allows to capture information relating to the operational and energy consumption patterns of a certain vessel, by measuring and monitoring engine and operational parameters, such as vessel speed, distance covered and fuel consumption. This setup allows the skipper to stay informed in real time about the measured parameters and the calculated fuel consumption.
Picture 2 – Visualisation screen installed onboard the Estonian vessel
The main PC box was installed on the bridge of the vessel. This box receives all the measured data and couples the information which is subsequently sent to a server. This allows to analyze the historical data of multiple trips based on the registered parameters.
Picture 3 – PC box of the SIMUL system installed on the bridge of the Estonian vessel.
SIMUL is designed to measure the operational parameters during the different trips conducted by the fishing vessel, thus serving three main purposes:
Operational and Energy Consumption Analysis: Defining the operational and energy consumption patterns of the vessel. It permits to approximately understand which are the energetic requirements of the vessel for different trips.
Comparative Energy Consumption Evaluation: Registering data to later compare the energy consumption of the vessel with the conventional diesel propulsion system to the upcoming hybrid propulsion system or other decarbonisation solutions installed onboard.
Performance Optimization Tool for Skippers: Providing the skipper with a tool to better understand the relationship between the engine speed, the vessel speed and the fuel consumption of the vessel. In this way, he can test which is the increment in fuel consumption given by an increment in the engine or vessel speeds (eg. the increments in L/h to gain one knot while steaming to fishing zones).
The initial sea trials to test all the sensors were conducted on the 8th of November. The following figure shows the tracking of the vessel during the test, as well as the engine speed and fuel consumption.
Picture 4 – Tracking, engine speed and fuel consumption of the sea trials in the Estonian vessel
The installations for the other vessels of the Seaglow project, located in Denmark, Norway and Sweden, have already started. AZTI will provide regular updates on progress in subsequent communications.
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Photo credits @AZTI @Argo Mengel
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
28 November, Stenungsund (Sweden) – The SEAGLOW project was presented at the Nationell yrkesfiskekonferens 2024 (National Commercial Fishing Conference), organized by the Swedish Rural Network (Landsbygdsnätverket). Representing SEAGLOW at the event were RISE and the Swedish Fishermen’s Producer Organisation (SFPO), two key partners in the project’s consortium.
The conference gathered around 140 participants, including fishers, government officials, scientists, and journalists, creating a vibrant platform for exchanging knowledge and ideas. Attendees explored the perspectives of fishing Producer Organizations and heard from young fishers—including fisherwomen—about their visions for the future of the industry. Discussions also delved into the science behind quota-setting and fish stock assessments.
SEAGLOW was presented in an innovation-focused session, where it stood out as the only project tackling advancements in fishing boat technology. Other presentations primarily concentrated on improving fishing gear. This unique focus highlighted SEAGLOW’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of fishing through sustainable and innovative boat technologies.
The conference was a valuable opportunity to connect with stakeholders and demonstrate SEAGLOW’s role in driving innovation within the fisheries sector.
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Photo: Hanna Varve, Research at Seaglow’s partner RISE, representing Seaglow during the event
Photo credits: @Seaglow
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
As climate challenges escalate, the fishing industry—particularly small-scale fisheries—reaches a pivotal moment. With the growing need to reduce carbon emissions and adopt sustainable practices, innovation is essential for the future of both fishers and marine ecosystems.
SEAGLOW is an forward-thinking EU-funded project including 16 partners aimed at supporting small-scale fisheries during the energy transition by testing and implementing green and carbon-neutral solutions on small-scale fishing vessels. It is funded by Horizon Europe – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2021 to 202) and contributes to the EU Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters which aims to protect and restore the health of Europe’s oceans, seas and waters, including through its “Baltic & North Sea Lighthouse” that engages and supports stakeholders across the Baltic and North Sea to reach a carbon-neutral and circular blue economy.
Hanne Breghendahl Pihl, Head of Unit at the NorthDenmark EU-Office and leading the SEAGLOW consortium, provides insights into the project’s vision and the technologies being implemented, such as hybrid electric drivetrains and methanol-powered engines.
Learn more Hanne’s perspective on the urgent need for change, the collaborative spirit of the Seaglow project, and how this multi-disciplinary consortium contributes to achieving greener small-scale fisheries.
Hanne, could you briefly introduce the Seaglow project and its main objectives?
The SEAGLOW project “Sustainable Energy Applications for Green and Low-impact Operation of small-scale fishing boats,” aims to reduce the carbon footprint of small-scale fisheries in the Baltic and North Sea basins. Through the implementation of alternative energy sources and fuel-efficient technologies, SEAGLOW addresses the urgent need for sustainable fishing operations by reducing dependency on fossil fuels. Its objectives include developing energy-efficient practices, by testing different types of energy sufficient applications such as engines, coating and surveillance technology on 4 fishings vessels in the area. But it also focuses on promoting renewable energy use in the maritime sector in general, and ultimately helping to pave the way for achieving carbon neutrality for small fishing vessels in the future.
Why is it important to focus on small-scale fishing boats when addressing environmental sustainability in the maritime sector?
Small-scale fishing boats, which make up a significant portion of the European fishing fleet, face high operational costs and environmental impacts due to fuel dependency. By targeting these boats, SEAGLOW aims to reduce emissions and fuel consumption, contributing directly to the EU Green Deal objectives while at the same time helping smaller operators remain economically viable while reducing their environmental impact.
What are the key strengths and unique expertise of the Seaglow project consortium, and how do they contribute to achieving the project’s goals?
The SEAGLOW consortium comprises a diverse set of organizations, including research institutes, NGOs, industry representatives, and energy technology providers from across Europe and 4 fishermen, which are investing both their time and their livelyhood (in this case their boats) in the project. This multidisciplinary team provides expertise in marine engineering, energy-efficient technologies, policy, and fishing industry operations, ensuring that SEAGLOW’s approach is both technically innovative and well-aligned with industry needs.
What type of sustainable energy technologies will Seaglow explore and implement for small-scale fishing vessels?
SEAGLOW is exploring several sustainable technologies, including hybrid methanol/electric engines, low-drag hull coatings, and low-cost monitoring systems for tracking fuel consumption and operational efficiency. Each technology will be tested on different fishing vessels, providing a comprehensive assessment of their effectiveness in reducing fuel consumption and emissions in real-world conditions.
Who are the key stakeholders in the Seaglow project, and how do you plan to engage with them throughout the project’s lifecycle?
SEAGLOW’s stakeholders include small-scale fishers, industry representatives, policymakers, and environmental organizations. We will try to involve all parties through co-creation workshops, policy advocacy, and community-based trials, where other fishermen can come and try the different application in order to encourage adoption and ensure that developed technologies meet stakeholder needs. Through these workshops and public engagement, we hope that SEAGLOW can help foster collaboration and ensure that new innovations align with local community goals and needs as well as aligning with the EU policy on the topic.
How will the outcomes of Seaglow benefit both small-scale fishers and the environment?
By introducing fuel-efficient, renewable technologies, SEAGLOW aims to reduce the operational costs and environmental impact for small-scale fishers, improving economic viability and lowering their carbon footprint. Additionally, SEAGLOW’s environmentally friendly coatings and energy monitoring tools offer reduced emissions, supporting both marine biodiversity and fishers’ long-term sustainability.
How can stakeholders, particularly small-scale fishers, get involved in the Seaglow project and benefit from its findings?
Fishers can participate in SEAGLOW’s showcasings being run in for instance Sweden, which will allow them come and browse and test the new technologies in a reallife scenario and see how they can benefit from any cost and efficiency gains by implementing these on their own boats.
Through stakeholder workshops and policy engagement, SEAGLOW also gives the opportunity to fishers to contribute to the reports that are to be delivered to the EU-Commission aiming at advising and influencing future sustainable EU practices and policies within the fishing industry.
Photo Credits:
Hanne Bregendahl Pihl @NorthDenmark EU-Office
Anna-Katharina – Norway @Len Duevel
*Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Aalborg, 5 November 2024 – The Seaglow Project (Sustainable Energy Applications for Green and Low-impact Operation of small-scale fishing boats in the Baltic and North Sea basins) is pleased to announce the establishment of its Advisory Board (AB), a strategic assembly of experts dedicated to guiding Seaglow’s mission of advancing low-impact, sustainable energy solutions within small-scale fisheries. This distinguished group will play a crucial role in aligning Seaglow’s technological advancements with the needs of small-scale fishersand broader maritime stakeholders, providing feedback and insights to ensure impactful project outcomes.
With a focus on demonstrating and evaluating five pivotal technologies—hybrid electric drivetrains, methanol-powered engines, polymer-based coatings to reduce drag, and low-cost sensors to encourage fuel-efficient sailing behavior—the Advisory Board’s expertise will be instrumental in guiding Seaglow’s exploration of innovative approaches to reduce fossil fuel dependency and greenhouse gas emissions.
Advisory Board Composition and Expertise
Technical Expertise
Tage Rishøj – CEO, Danish Maritime
With extensive experience in maritime technologies, Mr. Rishøj’s expertise supports Seaglow’s goal of enhancing energy efficiency in small-scale fishing operations.
Ethan Faghani – CEO, Cetasol
As an expert in clean energy technology, Mr. Faghani’s knowledge of powertrain systems will contribute to Seaglow’s efforts to reduce environmental impact through innovative engineering solutions.
Ander Lasa – CEO, Lasanaval OTN
Mr. Lasa brings valuable insights into maritime operations technology, supporting Seaglow’s objectives of improved engine efficiency and enhanced durability.
Law and Regulations
Aleksandrs Pavlovics – Head of Marine Investigation Department, Transport Accident and Incident Investigation Bureau, Republic of Latvia
Mr. Pavlovics’s regulatory expertise will assist Seaglow in ensuring compliance with European maritime standards, contributing to a robust regulatory framework for sustainable fishing practices.
Joakim Martinsen – Head of Section, Norwegian Fishermen’s Association
Mr. Martinsen’s knowledge of fisheries policy provides a critical perspective, ensuring that the interests and concerns of small-scale fishers are addressed throughout Seaglow’s activities.
Business Development
Sarah Ready – Fisheries Consultant, Director of SSF
Ms. Ready’s expertise in small-scale fisheries consultancy will support Seaglow in demonstrating the economic viability of sustainable technologies within the sector.
Christian Heidemann Andersen – CEO, Strandby Harbor
Mr. Andersen’s experience in harbor operations brings a vital business development perspective, aligning Seaglow’s innovations with practical infrastructure needs.
Jeremy Percy – Senior Advisor, SSFs representation
With a background in small-scale fisheries advocacy, Mr. Percy’s involvement ensures the project remains connected to the community-based and low-impact fishing practices it aims to support.
Supporting Seaglow’s Energy Transition for Sustainable Fisheries
At the core of Seaglow’s mission is the transition to sustainable fishing practices through advanced technology, aiming to reduce fuel consumption and lessen environmental impact. By collecting and analyzing sensor data from project vessels, Seaglow will assess the long-term effects of applied technologies and explore potential synergies between hybrid drivetrains, methanol engines, and advanced coating solutions. The Advisory Board will provide essential guidance in this process, participating in periodic consultations and offering insights that will shape Seaglow’s strategic direction.
The Seaglow consortium extends its sincere appreciation to the Advisory Board members for their dedication to advancing sustainable, low-impact solutions within small-scale fisheries. Together, we look forward to driving meaningful change and securing a sustainable future for northern Europe’s fishing sector.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
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