MASS and Decarbonisation Policy: Exploring the Nexus Between Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships and Decarbonisation Efforts

Maritime transport decarbonisation is accelerating considerably, driven by international and regional regulations and pressure from stakeholders requiring the shipping industry to contribute to curbing climate change impacts. While various technologies and measures are being discussed as part of shipping decarbonisation, the role of maritime autonomous surface ships (MASS) in this pursuit is still under-explored, despite extensive research on MASS. In this chapter, we delve into the intricate relationship between MASS and the imperative of decarbonisation. We present the architecture of MASS and the current prototype projects and analyse the upsides and downsides of MASS in relation to shipping decarbonisation. Our analysis of MASS technological advances and its contribution to decarbonisation efforts has unveiled both significant achievements and critical issues that seem to undermine its potential. MASS have the potential to reduce shipping carbon emissions through the use of advanced digital, information, communication, and intelligent technologies. However, it appears that with MASS, there may be an increase in energy intensity and usage due to their dependency on energy-consuming digital technologies, the redundancy of technologies, and the additional power required for the use of equipment that substitutes seafarers. This chapter contributes to the development of research on MASS and decarbonisation, supporting scholarly discussions and aiding policymakers in their decision-making processes. Notably, the chapter concludes with several recommendations useful to researchers, prototype project developers, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders.