(473) BRIDGING THE LNG KNOWLEDGE GAP IN THE BALTIC SEA REGION: THE Go LNG INITIATIVE AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A COMPETENCE CENTRE

摘要

The pressing problem of increasing air pollution levels in port cities, as well as the introduction of strict environmental regulations by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) through the relevant changes in the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) -and especially those in Annex VI- made it very crucial for the maritime industry to explore different avenues of improving its environmental impact and even consider the use of alternative fuel sources. This trend is not restricted solely in the maritime domain: other means of transport, such as cars/trucks and the rail industry, are also under continuous scrutiny for their level of gasses emissions; many high level initiatives and regulations are pushing towards a framework of restricting these dangerous emissions and a tighter control on pollution in relation to internal combustion engines. For the time being, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) looks as one of the most promising solutions for this challenge. The "Go LNG" initiative is focused on the development of demand and accessibility of LNG in the Baltic Sea Region (BSR). Activities associated with this strategic-in-nature project aim to promote the implementation of EU's Clean Fuel Strategy and boost LNG usage through the whole transport chain. Among other important tasks, the establishment of a BSR LNG Competence Centre is included. The World Maritime University (WMU), along with its capacity building focus, is playing a pivotal role towards the creation of a dedicated training centre, which will be the epicentre of the analysis in hand. Previous and very relevant experiences from other similar in nature projects, such as the “On The Motorways of the Sea Network (OTMW-N)” one, provide a solid background towards success. During those already concluded research activities, LNG training modules were designed and tested by delivery both in classroom and distance learning modalities; video-streaming of the associated lectures and online tests were integrated in the delivery methods. Furthermore, a potential framework to bring together interested in LNG educational and training institutes with a maritime focus in the wider region, under the notion to materialise this important centre will be discussed. Themes and learning objectives are included, along with a brief explanation of the possible target audience.