The United Kingdom has announced a smart shipping fund to develop maritime technology such as self-driving ships and automated port operations.

Maritime Minister Lord Henry Davies says the GBP8 million (USD10 million) Smart Shipping Acceleration Fund will finance feasibility studies for innovative technology demonstrations of scalable smart shipping technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. 

Successful ports will be able to use artificial intelligence to detect safety hazards, optimise port activities and reduce their environmental footprint.

The winning projects, which can cost between GBP75,000 and GBP750,000 (USD93,920 and USD939,200), will require matched funding from the private sector.

“Using AI and cutting-edge technology to make boats smarter and transform port operations is part of our plan to decarbonise shipping, enhance safety for our seafarers and help grow the economy,” Lord Davies says.

“AI has the potential to revolutionise the sector, create jobs and support the economy.”

Applications for the fund close on 26 June and proposals must include a technical and economic feasibility study associated with the development and demonstration of on-vessel technologies, infrastructure technologies or both.

Meanwhile, in the United States the Federal Highway Administration announced USD148 million in grants to 11 states and Puerto Rico under a new program to improve air quality and reduce pollution for truck drivers, port workers and families that live in communities surrounding ports.

Ports in California, Texas, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana and New Jersey received funding in the first round of the program.