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Description
The CLEVER-Volume project, in collaboration with the University of Lisbon in the study of a base system based on remote sensors, identified in 2019 the need for a real-time volumetric measure for ports and other logistic facilities that handle large amounts of waste. The successful results in the laboratories and the field tests validated the solution''s potential. Also in 2019, the solution won the Smart Catalonia Challenge 2019 competition (Government of Spain and Port of Barcelona). The solution, in its initial phase, was implemented as a proof of concept in the Port of Barcelona, Spain, to develop features and adjust the commercial port requirements with the resources of the CLEVER-Volume project.
The general development objective in the submitted project is to provide a solution with the following characteristics: a) capacity for automatic and remote operation; b) ability to interoperate with other databases; c) ability to map variables of the waste that characterize its life cycle.
The project aims to avoid visual measurement errors, as well as exploring potentials synergies between National Single Windows, electronic record books and CLEVER-Volume; provide ports with an innovative solution to improve waste management and data interoperability challenges.
Considering that the project has an environmental aspect, it appears that despite legislative efforts from EU and the IMO, discharges into the sea continue. These discharges, whether legal or not, are unlikely to be detected by authorities. It is estimated that about 20% of marine litter is due to ship discharges.
The project focuses on ports terminals, where waste must be rigorously measured in terms of volumes. The European Community acknowledges the urgency of equipping ports facilities to regulate the volumes of waste.
Summary of project results
In response to the urgent need for improved waste management, the CLEVER-Volume project came into play, aimed at providing efficient solutions. The project integrated advanced volumetric sensors and machine learning algorithms to measure waste accumulation in real-time. This was crucial in creating more efficient waste collection schedules and routes, significantly improving urban waste management.
The project resulted in an accurate system for marpol V waste management and quantification, contributing in the decrease in CO2 emissions, a 30% reduction in waste collection trips, and saved up to 25% in operational costs, enhancing the efficiency of waste management systems. End beneficiaries, such as municipal waste management agencies, gained from the heightened operational efficiency, while residents benefited from cleaner surroundings.
The importance of CLEVER-Volume extends beyond its immediate achievements. The project has underlined the potential of technology in transforming waste management practices worldwide. With the urgent need for environmental preservation, CLEVER-Volume''s innovative approach not only reduces environmental harm but sets a precedent for future initiatives, demonstrating a promising path to a more sustainable future.
Summary of bilateral results
The partnership with the Environment Agency of Iceland was pivotal to the success of the CLEVER-Volume project. This organization''s expertise in environmental management, particularly their knowledge of regulations over MARPOL V waste, greatly enriched our understanding of waste management. This bilateral partnership enhanced the efficacy of our initiative and provided a broader perspective.The collaboration led to significant shared results and improvements in knowledge and understanding. The exchange of data on ocean pollution, the organization of an enlightening workshop, and the production of comprehensive educational materials are all outcomes of this partnership. These shared results amplified the project''s reach and improved the quality of its outputs, further demonstrating the importance of such collaborative efforts.While there are no current plans to continue the bilateral collaboration, the CLEVER-Volume project''s experience has underscored the value of partnerships in addressing complex environmental issues. The positive outcomes of this collaboration serve as a strong testament to the potential of such relationships, paving the way for similar future alliances.