The European maritime industry launched the European Research Association “Vessels for the Future” with its first general assembly held on November 5, 2014.

Looking towards 2050, Europeans will be using their maritime and inland waterways space for transport; offshore food production, energy generation, mineral exploitation as well as for urban dwelling; tourism; manufacturing; and trade.

This calls for ambitious emission reductions and meeting stricter safety requirements with the advent of new technologies and operation scenarios. This also requires training of highly specialized manufacturing and operating personnel to use new vessels and systems and provide services in this future waterborne environment.