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Ahead of the forthcoming Marine Environmental Protection Committee (MEPC) meeting, International Paint, a leading marine coatings manufacturer and part of AkzoNobel, today said that improved efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions can be achieved by utilizing simple, proven and readily available technology.

International Paint has pioneered the development of Fluoropolymer Foul Release technology, which is said to produce fuel savings and an associated emissions reduction of up to 9% as well as improved service speed. To date over 400 vessels are now using this technology, branded Intersleek 900, as a means of improving both operational and environmental efficiencies.

“If 400 vessels were using sails, solar power, or any other complex, high profile technology, the industry would be lauded as one of the world’s most environmentally progressive transport industries,” said John Wilsher, Market Manager, Intersleek, International Paint.

“The reality is that it is the simple, proven solutions that are already making a significant impact, without necessarily receiving the recognition they deserve at an international level.”

Wilsher continued: “It is becoming increasingly clear that ship owners and operators will struggle to fully embrace complex technologies that require specialist skills to operate and often engender high maintenance costs. The reality is that Fluoropolymer Foul Release technology is a quick win for the industry, and a great example of how a simply applied technology can have a huge impact on improving efficiency and reducing emissions. If Intersleek 900 was applied to the whole commercial fleet, CO2 emissions could be reduced by almost 100 million tonnes every year. Few, if any, technologies in other sectors can say that.”

"Fluoropolymer Foul Release technology is the most advanced ‘next generation’ hull coating within the shipping industry. The 9% reduction is a conservative estimate with some vessels realising significantly more and represents efficiencies gained over extended periods," International Paint added.