Signol, a software company using behavioural science to cut fuel demand and operating costs, has announced the results of a four-month pilot that sought to reduce carbon emission on board Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement Deutschland (BSMD) managed ships through behavioural change alone.
The pilot saw Signol deliver individualised carbon-saving targets to 30 Masters and Chief Engineers across 23 BSMD-managed vessels. Calculated on the seafarer’s prior performance from analysis of operational data, Signol provided personal milestones and achievements via its app and direct emails, nudging participants toward fuel efficient behaviours and letting them review their voyages.
The results are thought to be profound for the maritime industry, as the sector strives to go green in line with the IMO 2050 strategy. The results prove that behaviour change alone can lead to a material reduction in ships’ energy demand and carbon emissions, whilst lowering operational costs.
13,900t equivalent of CO2 was saved over the four-month trial, equivalent to a US$ 3.16 m saving for BSM’s customers and their charterers. Bunker fuel consumption was significantly reduced, with a 12% saving across participating ships over the course of the trial – approximately 4,000t. The consumption of marine diesel for auxiliary engines also fell by 122t – a saving of more than US$ 150,000 for BSM’s customers and their charterers and 400t equivalent of CO2.
The method and results calculated by Signol were independently reviewed by UMAS, which concluded that: “The results suggest a clear association of variation in DFOC (Delta Fuel Oil Consumption) values with the nudging of captains” and that: “The main conclusions that nudging can have a significant effect on DFOC and AEU appear reasonable.”
Following the success of Signol’s implementation in its first maritime trial, the company will continue to deepen its relationship with Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement and its many partners and clients, working to decarbonise the industry.
Harriet Johnson, Head of Maritime, Signol, said: “The partnership with BSM Deutschland has shown the significant potential of Signol’s software solution in shipping. At this critical time for the maritime industry, these results are evidence that decarbonisation need not be capital-intensive and slow-moving. We look forward to a continued partnership with BSM as it helps the sector navigate toward a sustainable future.”
A summary of the report’s findings is available on Signol’s website.
