The Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands (PLOCAN) has officially joined the Net-Zero Mar Alliance, marking a significant step in its ongoing commitment to promoting sustainability and technological innovation in the maritime sector. This strategic partnership aligns with PLOCAN’s mission to accelerate the decarbonization of the maritime and port industries, responding to the pressing need for cleaner, more sustainable practices in the sector.
The Net-Zero Mar Alliance is a non-profit organization that plays a pivotal role in transforming the maritime-port sector by encouraging the adoption of clean technologies and sustainable practices. The organization is dedicated to reducing the polluting emissions generated by port infrastructure and maritime transport, crucial steps in meeting the European Union’s ambitious environmental goals. The EU’s Fit for 55 package aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 and make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050.
With this membership, PLOCAN joins an extensive network of 65 committed members, including port authorities, energy companies, and research organizations, all working together to lead environmental change in the sector. This collaboration will enhance PLOCAN’s ability to contribute to the transformation of the maritime sector, facilitating the development of cleaner solutions for port and maritime operations.
PLOCAN’s CEO, José Joaquín Hernández Brito, emphasized the importance of the new partnership, highlighting that “it represents an opportunity to promote and accelerate the decarbonization of the marine-maritime sector.” He further explained that PLOCAN has been actively contributing to the sustainability agenda through multiple initiatives. These include supporting renewable energy generation, testing technologies for decarbonization, and promoting energy efficiency, particularly in the port environment. Additionally, PLOCAN is focused on projects related to the Blue Economy, which encompasses sustainable practices for marine industries.
The Net-Zero Mar Alliance brings together key players from across the maritime industry, including port authorities, energy companies, and research organizations, with the goal of positioning Spain as a leader in the sector’s energy transition. As a member, PLOCAN will contribute its expertise and knowledge to the development of innovative solutions that address emission reductions in maritime and port transport. PLOCAN will also actively participate in working groups, forums, and conferences focused on decarbonization and renewable energies, gaining valuable insights from other members and contributing to collaborative efforts for a sustainable future.
África Marrero, PLOCAN’s Innovation Manager, spoke about the synergies created by the Alliance, stating, “We believe that the synergies created between the different members of the Alliance are key to achieving the emission reduction objectives established by the European Union.” She added that this collaboration provides a framework where PLOCAN can not only share its extensive experience but also gain new perspectives, fostering the development of innovative, sustainable solutions for the maritime sector.
About the Net-Zero Mar Alliance
The Net-Zero Mar Alliance is a non-profit association focused on accelerating the decarbonization and electrification of the maritime-port sector. Through collaboration with public and private actors, the Alliance aims to reduce emissions in ports and maritime transport. The European Union’s climate targets, including reducing net emissions by at least 55% by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality by 2050, form the backbone of the Alliance’s efforts. The initiative aims to position the Spanish maritime industry as a leader in electrification and decarbonization, advocating for renewable energy generation in ports and the production of alternative fuels to support a greener maritime future.
About PLOCAN
The Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands (PLOCAN) is a multipurpose service center that provides land-based and sea-based infrastructures designed to support research, technological development, and innovation in the marine and maritime sectors. Its mission is to promote long-term ocean observation and sustainability, offering a range of services, including observatories, test sites, underwater vehicle bases, and training and innovation hubs.
Source PLOCAN