The first approach that can be used to reduce emissions is simply to increase the efficiency of a vessel. Any saving in fuel use that can be brought about translates directly into reduced emissions. For every tonne of fuel saved, something like 3.5 tonnes of CO_2 is not released into the atmosphere. Some efficiency measures can be applied to the propulsion system itself, while others have an indirect effect. Considering the propulsion system as being the engine, transmission and final propulsor - be it a conventional propeller, thruster, pod or waterjet - all of these can be improved to reduce fuel consumption. Improving the efficiency of the hull by way of innovative bow forms and enhanced hydrodynamics can allow for a less powerful engine to produce the same speed or bollard pull as an unmodified vessel or better performance from an engine of the same size.
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