The European COST Action CA23159, Decarbonising Waterborne Transportation (DeWaTra), is a pan-European network committed to addressing the urgent challenge of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the maritime sector. With maritime transport accounting for a significant share of global trade and environmental impact, DeWaTra aims to accelerate sustainable innovations by
bringing together researchers, engineers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders across Europe and beyond.
Launched in 2024, DeWaTra fosters collaboration across five key technical areas, each coordinated by leading experts through dedicated Working Groups (WGs):
- WG1: Emissions assessment based on real ship operations
Led by Prof. Jin Wang (Liverpool John Moores University) Focuses on quantifying emissions using operational and AIS data. - WG2: Hydrodynamic hull design for energy efficiency
Led by Prof. Kostas Belibassakis (National Technical University of Athens) Explores methods to optimise hull forms for reduced resistance and improved performance. - WG3: Operation of propulsion systems with alternative fuels
Led by Prof. Peilin Zhou (University of Strathclyde) Investigates integration of alternative fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia into propulsion systems. - WG4: Renewable energy integration
Led by Prof. Jonas Ringsberg (Chalmers University of Technology) Examines technologies such as wind-assisted propulsion and photovoltaic systems for sustainable energy use onboard. - WG5: Onboard decision support systems for energy-efficient ship operation
Led by Prof. Nikola Vladimir (University of Zagreb) Develops intelligent tools and AI-based methods to guide operational decisions in real time.
These Working Groups support a wide array of networking tools provided by the COST framework, including joint meetings, training schools, Short-Term Scientific Missions (STSMs), and publication initiatives. The Action places particular emphasis on inclusivity, gender balance, and support for early-career researchers and participants from COST Inclusiveness Target Countries (ITCs).
How to Join DeWaTra
Participation in DeWaTra is open to individuals and institutions from COST member countries and cooperating states. Becoming a member is simple and involves two mandatory steps:
- Create an e-COST profile:
Register on the COST portal at https://e-services.cost.eu. This allows you to access and manage your involvement in COST Actions. - Apply to join DeWaTra CA23159:
Visit the Action’s official page at https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA23159 and select the Working Group(s) you wish to join. Applications are reviewed by the Action’s Management Committee.
Membership enables access to meetings, funding opportunities, and collaborative initiatives under the COST framework.
