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The Mediterranean, one of the busiest maritime areas in the world, is now at the center of a crucial challenge: maritime decarbonization in the Mediterranean. Every year, millions of passengers and tons of goods cross its routes, but the environmental cost remains high. Ship emissions impact coastal communities, marine ecosystems, and economic competitiveness.
A complex yet urgent transition
International targets set climate neutrality by 2050 and a 55% emissions reduction by 2030. Within this framework, the maritime sector must speed up its energy transition. Major shipping companies are investing in low-emission technologies, but it is small operators — fishing vessels, commercial boats, and marinas — that face the greatest challenges.
This is where POWER4MED comes in — a project funded by the European Union and co-financed by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). Running from November 2023 to July 2025, with a budget of €798,043 and 80% EU contribution, the initiative provides technical support, practical tools, and targeted training to help maritime SMEs shift to zero-carbon fuels and sustainable technologies.
From research to operational tools
POWER4MED followed a structured, three-phase approach: first collecting data on operators’ needs and available energy options, then conducting pilot studies on infrastructures and vessels, and finally developing six practical toolkits, transition strategies, and a digital support hub — the ECA4Med platform, accessible to anyone interested in applying tested solutions.
This approach successfully combined research, field application, and legacy-building through replicable materials for the fisheries, transport, and maritime tourism sectors.
A greener and more competitive Mediterranean
The project’s impact extends beyond the EU, involving partners from Algeria, Egypt, Turkey, and Libya. According to coordinator Mario Dogliani (SDG4MED), POWER4MED’s strength lies in its focus on practical collaboration among diverse Mediterranean countries, preparing small maritime operators for the environmental transition.
Aligned with the European Green Deal and the Fit for 55 package, POWER4MED demonstrates that even small fleets can play a decisive role in tackling climate change. EU support has been key in strengthening energy partnerships across fisheries and aquaculture, paving the way for a scalable and sustainable model throughout the Mediterranean and beyond.
A shared route toward the future
Maritime decarbonization is not only an environmental goal but also an economic strategy. Sustainable ports and fleets enhance competitiveness, attract investors, and protect coastal communities. The project’s legacy will continue through ECA4Med, the permanent digital hub supporting operators and policymakers in the years to come.
Step by step — ship by ship, port by port, community by community — the Mediterranean is building a model that blends innovation, cooperation, and sustainability.
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L’articolo POWER4MED: The Mediterranean’s Green Transition proviene da Pesceinrete.
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