The joint FIN-EST Green Corridor, a collaborative initiative between Finland and Estonia has approved 19 joint projects aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of ferry journeys between the two countries.
This initiative is seeking to create a sustainable and climate-neutral maritime corridor in the Gulf of Finland.
FIN-EST was launched in October, 2023 as a result of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by representatives from Helsinki, Tallinn, and various key stakeholders, which set the foundation for creating a maritime green corridor between Helsinki/Tallinn and Vuosaari/Muuga.
On 2nd October, 2024, the Green Corridor steering committee approved a comprehensive list of 19 joint projects covering a wide range of initiatives to support climate neutrality, marking the next step in taking the project to the next phase.
The projects will focus on the following topics:
- Transition to green fuels: Studies and activities aimed at ensuring the availability of green fuels and addressing associated safety regulations.
- Zero-emission port infrastructure: The introduction of zero-emission service vehicles and machinery at ports, along with the development of supporting infrastructure.
- Waste management enhancements: Efforts to harmonise sorting and recycling systems for ship-generated and consumer waste, contributing to more sustainable waste management.
- Digital solutions for fuel efficiency: The implementation of digital tools to monitor and reduce fuel consumption in ferries.
- Carbon capture technologies: Exploring the potential of carbon capture to further minimise emissions.
- Cycling travel promotion: A project focused on improving the experience for cycle travellers, ensuring seamless bicycle journeys between the cities and ships.
Valdo Kalm, Port of Tallinn CEO and Chairman of the FIN-EST Green Corridor steering group, said: “These 19 joint projects are a clear demonstration of our commitment to creating a more sustainable and climate-neutral maritime corridor. By collaborating across borders, ports, and maritime sector, we are not only reducing the environmental footprint but also strengthening the connectivity and competitiveness of our region.
“We do, however, need to be aware of the complexity of the issues at hand, and the resulting timeframe. Regardless, the FIN-EST Green Corridor can hopefully serve as a blueprint and inspiration for future green shipping initiatives around the world,” he said.
Ville Haapasaari, CEO of Port of Helsinki CEO, added: “The project stands out among many green corridor initiatives, due to its unparalleled progress, scope, and ambition. It is a prime example of successful co-operation between multiple stakeholders, including two major ports, both cities, and several leading shipping companies.
“The maritime industry is increasingly recognising the critical need to reduce emissions, and it’s clear that carbon neutrality at the port level alone is not enough. We must influence the entire transportation chain to make a meaningful impact,” he said.
The initiative’s core partners include the cities and ports of Helsinki and Tallinn, Rederi AB Eckerö, Tallink Grupp, Viking Line, and the Estonian Ministry of Climate, with support from the Finnish Ministry of Transport and Communications.
