Inland waterway transport is a key component of a competitive and innovative economy that cares about the environment and the quality of life of people.

Energy & carbon champion

Fuel-efficiency is the trademark of the industry. Average self-propelled vessels consume up to 0.013 litre per tonne-km, whereas modern vessels can achieve gas oil consumption as low as 0.0044 litre per tonne-km. Rail is estimated to consume on average 0.0095 l/tkm and road transport 0.0292 l/tkm. Inland ships today emit 3 to 5 times less carbon than road trucks per tonne-km. -15% reduction has been achieved since 1999. Smart steaming (equivalent of eco-driving) leads to carbon savings between 10 and 30%.

Low-sulphur fuel

The introduction of low-sulphur fuel in 2011 decreases pollution from ships and makes it possible to equip vessels with more energy-efficient engines and with after-treatment devices reducing pollution by 80 to 85%.

Eco-innovation

Cleaner ships are entering the market. Hybrid vessels allow savings up to 45%. In Utrecht and Amsterdam, the first full-electric and zero-emission city freight boats are sailing. 

Working with nature

This is a new and successful approach to waterway infrastructure projects, helping to deliver ‘win-win’ solutions for shipping and nature following a multi-disciplinary method from the start.