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Tag: Cleantech

Suppliers Identified for Blue-Green Algae Solutions in Ireland

RanMarine is thrilled to announce our collaboration with 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 and Eget Liber as part of a consortium selected among five successful tenders for a groundbreaking initiative to tackle cyanobacteria in Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland. A £450,000 grant is funding the initial phase of a project to evaluate potential solutions for combating cyanobacteria/ Blue-Green algae blooms in water bodies. These harmful algal growths produce toxins that pose significant risks to both aquatic ecosystems and human health, necessitating effective intervention strategies.

Our innovative approach combines the strengths of all three partners to effectively address this challenge:

RanMarine Technology will deploy its world-leading Autonomous Surface Vessel (ASV), equipped with advanced sensors and communication systems, to enable efficient monitoring and real-time data collection of cyanobacteria blooms. The ASV acts as a mobile platform that can operate autonomously, facilitating precise mapping and targeted treatment of algal growth.

𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 brings expertise in biotechnology and will integrate their proven methodologies to develop a tailored treatment strategy for Lough Neagh. Their focus on innovative techniques ensures that the holistic solution is both effective and environmentally sustainable.

Eget Liber will contribute its patented non-chemical Staged Flow Treatment System (SFTS), which effectively disrupts and eradicates cyanobacteria in situ while preserving the surrounding ecosystem. The SFTS is designed to operate within the upper water column, targeting the conditions where cyanobacteria thrive, thereby reducing water toxicity and nutrient levels.

Together, our fleet-based solution maximises efficiency and ensures rapid response times while adhering to strict environmental protocols. This first-phase assessment is crucial in identifying the best suitable solutions to enhance the long-term water quality of Lough Neagh and safeguard its natural ecosystems.

We are proud to be part of this important initiative and look forward to making a positive impact on Ireland’s water bodies!

Key links: 

𝗗𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗴𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲, 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗳𝗳𝗮𝗶𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 > Blue-Green Algae soloutions

𝗕𝗕𝗖 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀> Ireland waterways

𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻> Technology

#RanMarine #bluegreenAlgae #Cyanobacteria #WaterQuality #Innovation #Sustainability #Partnerships

Elevating Golf Course Management: The Revolutionary Role of Autonomous Surface Vessels

US Golf Monthly

A lake surrounded by grass and trees AI-generated content may be incorrect. 
Image: Golf Estate and water feature

Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs) are revolutionizing water feature maintenance in golf courses and golf estates, offering an efficient and non-disruptive solution for keeping waterways clean. These modern devices are transforming how golf clubs manage their water hazards and ornamental ponds, combining advanced technology with environmental stewardship.

ASVs excel in accessing hard-to-reach areas of water bodies, thanks to their compact size and exceptional maneuverability. This allows for comprehensive cleaning of water features, maintaining their aesthetic appeal and playability. The autonomous nature of these vessels significantly reduces the need for manual labor, enabling groundskeeping staff to focus on other critical aspects of course maintenance.

One of the key advantages of ASVs is their ability to operate continuously for extended periods, maximizing cleaning efficiency without increasing labor costs or disrupting play. This continuous operation ensures that water features remain pristine, enhancing the overall golfing experience.

Beyond debris removal, leading ASV manufacturers are able to use mobile sensors for water quality monitoring. Equipped with advanced technology, they collect real-time data on various water quality parameters. This information is invaluable for golf course managers, enabling data-driven decisions about water management, algae control, and overall ecosystem health of their water features.

The use of ASVs aligns perfectly with modern golf course management practices, demonstrating a commitment to innovative and sustainable course maintenance. By deploying these smart devices, golf clubs can enhance the overall playing experience, potentially increasing member satisfaction and the club’s appeal to prospective members and tournament organizers.

Water alage and the autonomous ASV drone – WasteShark

Image: WasteShark ASV clearing excessive algae build-up

As golf clubs and country clubs worldwide strive to balance environmental stewardship with exceptional playing conditions, technologies like ASVs offer a promising solution. They represent a smart, efficient, and sustainable approach to water feature management, paving the way for healthier, more beautiful golf courses that meet the high standards of today’s discerning golfers.

For golf course managers looking to elevate their water management practices, exploring the latest ASV technologies could be a game-changing decision. These innovative solutions not only address current maintenance challenges but also position golf courses at the forefront of sustainable and efficient operations.

RanMarine Launches the MegaShark to Address $20Billion Market Opportunity for Waterway Clean-Up

Press Release

For Immediate Release


[Rotterdam, Netherlands, August 8, 2024] – RanMarine Technology (“RanMarine” or the “Company), a pioneer in autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) designed to clean ports, harbors, lakes, rivers and other near-shore environments, today announced the commercial launch of the MegaShark, an innovative mid-sized, electric-powered vessel set to revolutionize aquatic clean-up efforts.

The latest addition to RanMarine’s fleet of ASVs, the rechargeable MegaShark vessel is specifically engineered to efficiently capture and remove floating waste, algae, and biomass from waterways. With significantly increased capacity over prior models, the MegaShark is designed as a sustainable and cost-effective solution for use in a wide range of environments including harbors, ports, marinas, rivers, canals, lakes, and other waterways.

The MegaShark offers versatile operation modes, including onboard, remote control from shore, and autonomous navigation with LiDAR-based collision avoidance, ensuring efficient performance for various tasks. Designed with a shallow draft and a unique catamaran hull, it features an efficient waste-basket capture system, allowing it to hold up to 880 liters/440kg of waste, a greater than five-fold increase over the WasteShark ASV. The vessel’s base battery configuration supports up to 8 hours of operation, extendable to 16 hours, and it utilizes RanMarine’s proven navigation and autonomous software.

“We continually strive to simplify our customers’ operations, reduce costs, and enhance waste collection efficiency,” stated Richard Hardiman, CEO and founder of RanMarine. “The MegaShark complies with new sustainable fuel legislation and can deploy advanced water-quality sensors, providing crucial data feedback that helps our clients understand and maximize their environmental impact. Its rapid deployment capabilities and efficient waste collection system help mitigate long-term environmental damage, promoting healthier aquatic ecosystems, while the vessel’s 100% recyclable aluminum hull enhances its sustainability.”

Operating in over 30 countries, RanMarine’s waterway cleaning solutions are trusted by a diverse array of clients including corporate, governmental, and environmental organizations. Key partners and clients include Walt Disney, Hudson River Park, PortsToronto, BIC Services, Port of Halifax and Dallas County. This widespread adoption underscores the reliability and effectiveness of RanMarine’s solutions, which address a $20 billion market opportunity around the world.

About RanMarine:

RanMarine empowers organizations worldwide to restore aquatic environments to their natural state through the design and development of data-driven autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) that specialize in cleaning ports, harbors, lakes, rivers and other near-shore environments. RanMarine’s proprietary ASVs, designed to efficiently remove floating waste pollution and algae/biomass from waterways, are currently operating in over 30 countries, with corporate and government clients including Walt Disney, Hudson River Park, PortsToronto, Babcock Marine Naval Bases UK, and Port of Houston. RanMarine’s WasteShark ASV can be operated either autonomously or manually via handheld remote control. RanMarine’s new MegaShark ASV, which boasts five to seven times the capacity of the WasteShark, is now available for sale and offers the option of either onboard operation, remote control or autonomous operation*. Additionally, the company anticipates beginning shipments of its OilShark ASV in early 2025, a vessel designed to enable rapid removal of oil spills from waterways. All RanMarine’s ASVs can be outfitted with over 15 different sensors for customized data collection needs, offer fast and simple deployment, and provide substantial cost savings compared to traditional alternatives. * MegaShark’s full Autonomous operation will be released  in late 2024

Learn more at:

Website: www.ranmarine.io
Facebook: @RanMarineTechnology
Instagram: @ranmarinetechnology
X/Twitter: @RanMarineTech
LinkedIn: @ranmarine

Contact:

Dave Gentry

RedChip Companies, Inc.

1-800-REDCHIP (733-2447)

1-407-644-4256

ranmarine@redchip.com

RanMarine’s Subscription Model Takes to Yorkshire waters

4/7/24 Leeds, UK – RanMarine is pleased to announce the deployment of our innovative WasteShark in the Leeds Waterfront. In collaboration with Canal Connections, this initiative marks a significant milestone for both RanMarine and the UK’s environmental efforts, leveraging our cutting-edge technology to provide continuous and efficient water cleaning services through a subscription model.

WasteShark Launch in Leeds – 🎦@nationalworldlocaltv – Daily Motion

A Yorkshire First:

– Technological Innovation: The WasteShark features advanced GPS, LIDAR collision avoidance technology, and a camera, making it a state-of-the-art tool for waterway maintenance.

– Data Collection: This initiative will be the first in Yorkshire to systematically record the types and quantities of waste collected.

– Canal Rivers Trust Approval: This project is the first use of such technology approved by the Canal Rivers Trust on Yorkshire waterways.

– Social Impact: Partnering with Canal Connections, this project involves local communities in sustainability efforts.

Support and Collaboration:

The Leeds Waterfront Group, part of the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce’s Property and Economic Forum, spearheaded this project with support from local businesses, Leeds City Council, and Leeds Civic Trust. Paul Ellison, Chair of the Leeds Waterfront Group, stated, “We are very pleased to have put this innovative project together. It will generate real benefits for the city and highlight the importance of keeping our waterways clean and attractive.”

Project Supporters and Sponsors:

This initiative is co-funded by several organizations, including Addleshaw Goddard, Biffa Waste Services, Bupa Foundation, CPW, Leeds Creative District, Iseepr, Leeds City Council, Leeds Civic Trust, Mott Macdonald, Vastint UK, VTR North, and Yorkshire Design Group. Canal Connections will manage the WasteShark’s operations, while Biffa Waste Services will handle waste recycling and disposal. KISS Branding has contributed expert design support.

About RanMarine WasteShark:

Inspired by the whale shark, the WasteShark collects up to 500kg of waste per day from the water’s surface. Powered by electric motors, it operates remotely or autonomously, making it an eco-friendly solution for water pollution. RanMarine, headquartered in Rotterdam, specialises in innovative aquatic drones designed to clean and maintain water bodies. This collaboration signifies both a technological solution and a commitment to preserving our waterways for future generations.

WasteShark robot to clean Yorkshire canals and rivers

By Elizabeth Baines, @EKBaines, BBC News

A robotic drone is being used to clean up the waterways in Leeds.

The cutting-edge technology has been developed in the Netherlands and is the first of its kind to be used in Yorkshire in the UK, according to the Leeds Waterfront group.

The robot swims along waterways and can scoop up to 500kg of waste from the surface through a wide mouth, hence it being named the Waste Shark.

The chairman of the Leeds Waterfront Group Paul Ellison said the aim was to “enhance the rivers” in the city, which were often “forgotten about and neglected”.

Mr Ellison said the robot was inspired by a whale shark.

“That has a big wide mouth which it opens to feed, in the same way waste gets caught inside its mouth,” he said.

The drone, called a WasteShark, is powered by electric motors and directed via a remote control from the riverside.

It is equipped with GPS, collision avoidance technology and a camera.

“Everyone wants to see action being taken, waste collects in certain areas in Leeds and there is an amazing amount of wildlife in the river now,” Mr Ellison said.

“We want to prevent any of that being digested by wildlife and also to prevent the rubbish, and to prevent it going further beyond the city and out into the sea.”

He said weekly data would be collected to show how much waste is being removed from the water.

It will also record the types of waste being collected.

The project is also the first use of the technology to be approved by the Canal and Rivers Trust.

Becca Dent, from the charity, said it was important to work in “new” and “innovative ways” to remove litter from the waterways.

“It can be quite challenging, unfortunately millions of pieces of litter end up in our waterways.

“We’ve got birds that live along here, otters, and water voles.

“I’ve seen a moorhen trying to make a nest out of a trolley and crisp packets, so it’s really good to see the waste removed.”

Original story by the BBC > https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy08y3zglklo

Two WasteSharks trawling Maldives Waters

🌊 Exciting news from RanMarine! We’re thrilled to announce that we’re training the first recipients of two WasteSharks in the archipelagic paradise of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean. Huge thanks to the State Trading Organization plc for facilitating placements with Malé City and the Maldives Airports Company Limited – MACL.

Waters near Maldives Airport

CEO & MD Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed and Mohamed Lam’aan (DMD) and Mujthaba Latheef (DMD) officiated the use of ocean clean-up drone. The WasteShark will aim to keep the water aerodromes and its surrounding lagoon free from ocean debris and a 2nd will clean Male City.

RanMarine Showcases Innovative Solutions at 2024 Dutch Blue Flag Awards

[IJSSELSTEIN, May 20th, 2024] – RanMarine proudly displayed its latest innovations at the prestigious 2024 Blue Flag Awards, held at the picturesque Jachthaven Marnemoende harbour. The event provided an ideal backdrop to present RanMarine’s electric-powered vessels, designed for cleaning and collecting floating waste from water and offered a sneak peek of the upcoming MegaShark multi-platform product.

The Blue Flag Awards ceremony, hosted jointly by the harbour and the Municipality of IJsselstein, honoured excellence in environmental sustainability, recognising outstanding efforts in maintaining clean and safe beaches and marinas. This year, a record-breaking 200 Blue Flags were awarded to various locations across the Netherlands, including 143 marinas, 50 beaches, and 7 inland beaches.

RanMarine’s participation reiterated its commitment to providing cutting-edge technological solutions that enhance water cleanliness and preserve natural aquatic environments. “We are privileged to have had the opportunity to present our technologies at the 2024 Blue Flag Awards, showcasing our dedication to sustainability and clean water initiatives,” said Bart de Vries, Chief Operating Officer at RanMarine. “Our range of electric-powered vessels, our ability to monitor water quality data via various sensor arrays, and the MegaShark preview epitomise RanMarine’s commitment to innovating environmental stewardship. The agile and fully autonomous WasteShark is tailored for marinas and harbours, while our latest addition, the MegaShark, offers both seated onboard operation and remote control steering for tackling larger tasks.”

MegaShark generated considerable interest and discussions with harbour masters and attendees focused on expanding its deployment applications to match client needs and create a healthier aquatic environment. RanMarine welcomes these inputs, enhancing the company’s ability to build better platforms.

Erik van Dijk, national coordinator of Blue Flag Netherlands, emphasised the importance of sustainable practices: “The Blue Flag has been flying in the Netherlands since the late 1980s. In 2009, we had 100; now, 15 years later, we’ve doubled that. This growth reflects the hard work of marinas and beach municipalities to meet our criteria. Sustainable practices are increasingly important. The addition of 13 new marinas shows a commitment to high-quality services, and RanMarine’s technology is well-suited to support these efforts.”

The event marked the next significant milestone in RanMarine’s journey towards advancing water cleanliness and sustainability efforts. The company remains steadfast in its mission to provide efficient and eco-friendly solutions for cleaner waterbodies and waterways.

**About RanMarine:**

RanMarine is a leading provider of electric-powered vessels designed for water cleaning and environmental sustainability. Focused on innovation and technology, RanMarine aims to revolutionise water-cleaning solutions for a cleaner and healthier planet.

Active in over 25 countries, RanMarine’s autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) efficiently remove floating waste and algae from waterways. Their clients include Walt Disney, Hudson River Park, PortsToronto, Babcock Marine Naval Bases UK, and Port of Houston. The WasteShark ASV can operate both autonomously and manually, while the MegaShark ASV, offering five times the capacity, will launch in mid-2024 and support onboard operation. The OilShark ASV, designed for rapid and agile deployment in capturing mid-scale hydrocarbon residues, is expected to be available by the end of 2024.

RanMarine’s ASVs can be equipped with over 15 sensors for customised data collection, offer quick deployment, and reduce costs by up to 80% compared to traditional methods. All mission and water quality data are stored and accessible through the RanMarine Connect portal.

For more information, visit:

Website: www.ranmarine.io
Facebook: @RanMarineTechnology
Instagram: @ranmarinetechnology
X/Twitter: @RanMarineTech
LinkedIn: @ranmarine

**About KMVK (Keurmerk Milieu, Veiligheid en Kwaliteit):**

The Blue Flag is a prestigious international award given annually to beaches and marinas that meet stringent environmental management, safety, water quality, education, and waste management criteria. In the Netherlands, this is managed by the Stichting KMVK.
For more information about the objectives and the beaches and marinas with a Blue Flag, please visit www.blauwevlag.nl

Smart Cities Embrace Autonomous Surface Vessels for Waterway Clean-up

Axis Global Comms – United Arab Emirates

Dubai city lights on water at night

Image: Dubai, UAE

Across the globe, urban centers designated as “smart cities” are increasingly turning to cutting-edge technologies to address the complex challenges of urban waterway management. Among the most promising innovations is the Autonomous Surface Vessel (ASV), a robotic solution poised to revolutionize how cities maintain the health and cleanliness of their canals, rivers, harbors, and other aquatic environments.

ASVs represent a significant leap forward from traditional waterway maintenance methods, which are often costly, labor-intensive, and environmentally disruptive. These vessels are designed to autonomously navigate urban waterways, removing floating debris, controlling unwanted biomass, and contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal of the cityscape. Their compact size and remarkable maneuverability allow them to access areas that are difficult or impossible for larger boats or manual cleaning crews to reach, such as narrow canals, under bridges, and around moored vessels.

Beyond their impressive cleaning capabilities, ASVs offer a wide range of potential benefits for smart city initiatives. One of the most exciting possibilities is their capacity to serve as mobile platforms for environmental monitoring. Equipped with a suite of sensors, these vessels could collect valuable data on water quality parameters such as temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen. This information would provide city managers and environmental agencies with a more comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the health of their waterways, enabling them to make more informed decisions about pollution control, resource management, and infrastructure investments.

The likely ability to gather detailed water quality information using ASVs represents a significant step forward in urban environmental management. This potential for data collection aligns perfectly with the smart city ethos of leveraging technology to improve decision-making and optimize resource allocation.

In addition to their environmental and data-gathering benefits, ASVs offer economic advantages for cities. Their autonomous operation reduces the need for human labor, leading to lower operating costs and greater efficiency. ASVs can operate near continuously, well beyond the standard 9-to-five model, allowing for consistent waterway maintenance without the constraints of traditional work schedules. This continuous operation can be particularly valuable in cities with busy waterways that require constant attention.

Image: WasteShark in Delft canals, the Netherlands

Furthermore, the use of ASVs can enhance the image of a city as a forward-thinking and environmentally responsible destination. Clean, healthy waterways contribute to the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike, boosting tourism, property values, and civic pride. By investing in ASV technology, smart cities can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and innovation, attracting businesses, talent, and investment.

The adoption of ASVs is still in its initial stages, but the potential benefits are clear. As technology advances and cities continue to embrace the smart city model, ASVs are likely to play an increasingly important role in urban waterway management. These robotic vessels represent a promising solution for creating cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable urban environments for generations to come.

As cities grapple with the challenges of urbanization, climate change, and environmental degradation, the need for innovative solutions has never been greater. ASVs offer a unique combination of environmental, economic, and social benefits, making them a valuable asset for any smart city seeking to improve the health and sustainability of its waterways. These vessels are not just cleaning up trash; they are helping to build a brighter, more sustainable future for urban communities around the world.

OUR WATERWAYS WITHOUT PLASTIC.

Interview by Up!Rotterdam / Rotterdam Innovation City

The mission of RanMarine is to develop advanced technology specifically designed for cleaning up pollution, organic waste, and debris in waterways. Additionally, water quality is monitored, allowing proactive measures to be taken to improve water quality.

Founder Richard Hardiman: “The idea for RanMarine arose in 2016 when I saw a few guys pulling plastic out of the water with a fishing net in a harbor in South Africa. I thought: this can surely be made easier. I literally sketched the idea for what is now the WasteShark on a napkin.”

“By removing plastic from the water in time while it’s still floating, we try to reduce the risk of it breaking down into microplastics” Richard Hardiman, RanMarine

Since 2020, Richard and his family have moved to Rotterdam. “I tried to start my company in South Africa, but there are many more challenges there than in The Netherlands. I had done business in Rotterdam before, so I knew the city. When I read about a startup program I could participate in, I didn’t hesitate to sign up and travel to Rotterdam. The Netherlands has a very large volume of water, so I immediately thought: this is the place to bring my idea to life. Moreover, Rotterdam, with all its maritime expertise, is the ideal hotspot for my company.”

RanMarine has developed several autonomous surface vessels, commonly known as water drones. Operating on technology similar to that of robot vacuum cleaners, these aquatic drones come in various sizes and are tailored to different environments. Compact versions are suitable for rivers and canals, even between moored boats, while larger models are designed for ports and lakes. The flagship product is the WasteShark, a catamaran-style vessel that can operate both remotely or autonomously and is equipped with a waste collection bin between the floats.

Richard: “Actually, there should be a WasteShark everywhere because it’s often only purchased when waste is visible on the water. It’s better to anticipate, because if you remove waste and plastics in time, you do so before it breaks down into microplastics.”

Richard has big plans for the future. “I also see a collaboration with Hebo. Together, we are working on the development of an emission-free vessel for rapid response in removing small oil spills from waterways. Every day, I am feeling happy with my work. It’s a great feeling to be involved in something good. I see that reflected in my colleagues too. For example, Robotic Engineers can work anywhere, but they also choose to work for an organization like RanMarine that makes the world a better place.”

“Without Rotterdam, I would never have achieved what I have now. There is so much talent here. It’s truly a city of action! As a good Rotterdam saying goes: Actions speak louder than words. The TU Delft is nearby, while the port with all its knowledge is within easy reach. UpRotterdam has been immensely helpful in the process. With their network, they directed me to the right people and organizations. Sometimes I talk to friends in South Africa about my experiences starting my business, and they don’t believe me when I say that I received needed supported during the process. As a Dutch person, you might not fully realize how well things are organized here. 

To all new entrepreneurs, I would say: don’t be afraid to fail. There are plenty of opportunities in the Netherlands. Just take the risk, there is always a safety net here.”

Richard Hardiman is one of the Rotterdam Icons. Curious about the other Icons? Click here to meet them!
Original story here

Autonomous Surface Vessels (ASVs) are revolutionising water pollution clean-ups

“In our pursuit of a cleaner, more sustainable future, battery-driven autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) are emerging as invaluable tools! They’re transforming water pollution clean-ups on a grand scale,”
Richard Hardiman, CEO of RanMarine.

Water pollution significantly threatens ecosystems, biodiversity and human health worldwide. From industrial or agricultural runoff to oil spills and plastic waste, pollutants contaminate water bodies, endangering aquatic life and compromising vital resources. Traditional clean-up methods often fall short due to limitations in workforce, resources and efficiency However, the rise of autonomous technology presents a game-changing opportunity to tackle this pressing and ever-growing issue.

Ports, Harbours And Marinas
All water bodies are impacted by pollution, but as busy centres of trade and travel, ports, harbours and marinas have become key locations that require attention to address their pollution concerns. Ports are hubs for global trade and are crucial for the world economy. Sadly, their operations often come at a significant cost to the environment, generating high pollution levels. Commercial and fishing harbours are notorious for leaking waste into surrounding seas. Plastic is a huge concern and requires regular removal to prevent its accumulation. Wind also poses a big challenge for harbours as it quickly and easily blows waste into the water.

RanMarine Has The Technology to Help
RanMarine Technology is a cleantech company that designs, manufactures and distributes emission-free ASVs such as the WasteShark, MegaShark, and soon-to-be-released OilShark. RanMarine’s Patrick Baransky was able to tell me more about what they do and how their technology is making a difference to pollution clean-up efforts. “We want to empower people and organisations to restore the aquatic environment back to its natural state. Our initiatives help to clear-up debris, plastic, algae and other biomass from water bodies. We combine this with water-quality data acquisition, with the overall aim of safeguarding aquatic ecosystems. RanMarine is perhaps best known for its robotic WasteShark. Inspired by the whale shark, which uses its broad mouth for filter feeding, this ASV houses a central waste collection basket between its hulls to scoop up floating rubbish. It is equipped with depth and temperature readings and an array of optional extra sensors for oxygen, pH and turbidity levels. The WasteShark was designed to reach areas that are tough to get to. It is small enough to fit into tight spaces yet big enough to make a difference!

The MegaShark is a scaled-up version of Waste Shark designed with a larger storage compartment to handle larger volumes of waste and biomass. Its size allows for extended operation periods without the need for frequent emptying. It is used in bigger water bodies and industrial areas where waste accumulation is more substantial, making it a perfect fit for ports, harbours, and marinas.
Excitingly, RanMarine is also in the advanced stages of research and development, with a goal of bringing the OilShark to fruition in 2024.
“Built on a platform similar to the MegaShark, this innovative vessel harnesses industry expertise to transform oil spill clean-up. Its optimal size allows for swift deployment and safe and sustainable resolution of oil spill challenges, particularly in harbours and ports due to engine or pump spillages.”

Digital Transformation: Providing Solutions to Big Issues
The modernisation of ports and harbours into digital hubs, often termed Port 4.0, has numerous benefits in addressing environmental concerns and advancing sustainability. Digital transformation also brings many other advantages: improved waste collection techniques, increased efficiency, accuracy, and safety. Digitalising port operations and introducing smart and clean energy operations minimises environmental impact, while IoT enables real-time data exchange and informed decision-making.
The WasteShark offers both remote-controlled operation and full robotic autonomy, minimising human intervention while performing waste collection and environmental monitoring tasks. This capability optimises operational efficiency, reduces costs and promotes cleaner port waters. Additionally, these agile vessels excel at navigating hard-to-reach areas in marinas, ports, or harbours, intercepting water pollution before it disperses into the open ocean.”
Using the RanMarine ASVs, ports and harbours can leverage customisable onboard sensors and cameras to gather data on waste accumulation patterns and water quality conditions. This data empowers port authorities to pinpoint pollution hotspots, prioritise clean-up efforts, and enact targeted interventions for maximum efficacy.

Scalability and adaptability are further benefits of this digital shift, as RanMarine’s ASVs can be integrated into existing port infrastructure. This flexibility allows for tailored responses to evolving waste management needs, ensuring continuous protection of marine ecosystems in a dynamic environment.

Where Will We Go From Here?
With global trade expected to continue growing, the environmental pressures associated with port activities are likely to intensify. Maritime users and boat owners are increasing, pushing up the number of marinas and people frequenting these facilities. Addressing these challenges will require concerted action from governments, industry stakeholders and individuals to develop and implement innovative solutions that balance the needs of maritime trade, recreation, and tourism with environmental sustainability. The pollution of ports, harbours and marinas represents a complex and pressing environmental issue with far-reaching consequences. As we navigate these waters, we must raise awareness and advocate for cleaner, more sustainable operations to protect the health of our planet and its inhabitants for generations to come.

Baransky was able to shed light on the situation further with some statistics:
The United Nations Environment Programme forecasts that plastic waste in aquatic ecosystems will almost triple, ranging from 8-15 billion kg annually in 2016 to an estimated 24-40 billion kg by 2040. Aggressive agricultural practices and nutrient runoff are fuelling an increase in Harmful Algal Blooms, adversely affecting marine ecology and economies. The National Academy of Sciences also reports approximately 4 million metric tons of oil entering global oceans annually from 2010 to 2019. The US Coast Guard estimates around 30,000 minor to moderate oil spills annually in the US, primarily from fuel bunkering and salvage operations, requiring legal protection and cleaning protocols in major ports and harbours.”
RanMarine is providing the technology to aid people in the digital transformation transition-harnessing the power of ASVs to keep our aquatic environments pollution-free. RanMarine’s technology already spans 27 countries, and they aim to achieve widespread global adoption within the next decade.

“Ultimately, our goal is for our Autonomous Surface Vessels to become as ubiquitous as robotic vacuum cleaners or street sweepers, Innovation, crafted for nature“



To share the LinkedIn Story ⤵️
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<Original story published by H2O Global
https://h2oglobalnews.com in their April 2024 edition. Written by Natasha Posnett>