In an effort to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field of zero-emission vessels (ZEV), the ZEVinnovation Communication Event took place in Zagreb, Croatia, on November 7th, 2023. Organized by the Center for Technology Transfer (CTT), this event aimed to facilitate dialogue between key stakeholders from various sectors, including representatives from the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, Ministry of Tourism and Sport, Ministry of Sea Transport and Infrastructure, as well as prominent companies and institutions within the naval architecture and maritime industries.
With 30 participants in attendance, the event created a space for the exchange of experiences and know-how between companies involved in the ZEVinnovation pilot program and relevant stakeholders from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Zagreb, as well as competent ministries and other institutions pivotal to advancing the Energy Transition in naval architecture.
The event’s agenda encompassed several insightful sessions and discussions:
1. Welcome and Introduction to the ZEVinnovation Project
Tamara Aleksandrov Fabijanić, Director of CTT, commenced the event by providing a warm welcome and introducing the ZEVinnovation project.
2. Presentation of ZEVinnovation Project and Pilot Program
Lovro Frković, researcher in CTT, presented an overview of the ZEVinnovation project and its pilot program.
3. ZEVinnovation Pilot Company Pitching Session
A pivotal part of the event, this session allowed participating companies to present their current research and development efforts in the realm of zero-emission vessels. Companies and their representatives included:
- Tomislav Uroda from iCat
- Nikola Budimir from ViaKornel
- Igor Ćutić from MCoE
- Mauricio Licul from Novatec
- Goran Paladin from Adriateq
- Mario Špadina from SeaCras
4. Networking break
Participants had the opportunity to network and further discuss their ideas during a networking break.
5. Panel talk – Innovations in Shipbuilding for Zero-Emission Vessels
The panel brought together key figures in the industry to explore innovations in shipbuilding and zero-emission vessels. The panelists that participated in the event were:
– prof.dr.sc. Vedran Slapničar, FSB;
– Mauricio Licul, Novatec;
– Tomislav Uroda, iCat;
– Igor Ćutić, MCoE;
– Nikola Budimir, ViaKornel;
– Lovro Frković, CTT.
6. Communication Event Conclusion
The event wrapped up with a summary of the workshop’s key takeaways and a communal lunch, fostering further interaction and collaboration among participants.
Overall, the Communication Event with Targeted Information Campaigns proved to be a vital event for advancing the Energy Transition in naval architecture in Croatia. By promoting dialogue, know-how and innovative technologies among industry leaders, researchers, and government representatives, this event marked a significant step toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for maritime transport in Croatia and beyond.
