Cross-border cooperation is vital for addressing shared environmental concerns especially in areas characterised by high carbon emissions and impact associated with maritime transport. Such an example is the Adriatic Sea, where the ports and maritime routes used for trade and transport rely heavily on fossil fuels, contributing significantly to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. 

WHAT

Italy and Croatia have partnered to improve sustainable cross-border sea mobility by promoting the use of green hydrogen as a zero-emission fuel for maritime transport. By harmonizing regulations and establishing a comprehensive hydrogen supply chain across borders, this initiative not only ensures smooth implementation but also sets a strong example for sustainable innovation in other regions.

To address the significant environmental impact and high carbon emissions from maritime transport in the Adriatic Sea, the TransH2 (Transition to Hydrogen-Fuelled Cross-Border Sea Mobility) project was launched. The ports and maritime routes that facilitate trade and transportation between Italy and Croatia currently rely heavily on fossil fuels, which contribute to pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, climate change, and degradation of the marine ecosystem and air quality.

TransH2 aims to conduct research and develop proof-of-concept designs for hydrogen-fuelled ships. It will also prepare feasibility studies for introducing hydrogen fuelling stations in pilot areas, laying the groundwork for broader adoption of hydrogen in maritime transport. The project highlights the importance of cross-border cooperation, pooling knowledge and resources to overcome challenges related to technology, investment, and regulatory frameworks.

WHO

The project is led by the University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies, with a focus on maritime logistics and management. The other 7 partners include the University of Trieste, Start Romagna S.p.A., Navalprogetti Srl, Maritime Technology Cluster FVG, Urbanex d.o.o., ZADRA NOVA, and the Croatian Chamber of Economy.

WHERE

The TransH2 project takes place in the cross-border region between Italy and Croatia, specifically focusing on the Adriatic Sea. The project targets maritime transport routes and port infrastructures along the Adriatic coasts of both countries.

HOW

The TransH2 project is part of the 2021-2027 Interreg VI-A Italy-Croatia Programme. The total budget was EUR 2,357,035.00, with EUR 1,885,628.00 funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

RESULTS

Although the TransH2 project is still at an early stage, the expected results include:

• The creation of a unified cross-border strategy sustainable maritime transport: Consolidation of data, knowledge, and stakeholder capacities to support stakeholder networking and pilot actions.
• Demonstration of Hydrogen-Fuelled Solutions: Development and testing of three co-designed use-cases to demonstrate the efficiency and feasibility of hydrogen-fuelled sea-mobility solutions, enhancing their application and acceptance across the region.
• Promotion and Scaling of Green Hydrogen Technologies: Creation and promotion of new solutions aimed at scaling up the green transition in marine transport, with a focus on the adoption of green hydrogen technologies within and beyond the programme area.

Stay up-to-date with the project's progress by visiting its website!