Enabling a sustainable transition of a waterborne transport system : By identifying essential aspects and actors

Abstract: In light of the emerging consequences of climate change, there is a need for a sustainable transition of the marine sector, including waterborne transport systems, towards implementation of fossil free fuels and technologies. The thesis limits its scope to solely include passenger ferries that are suitable for calm waters and often operates on shorter distances, which are often incorporated in a public transport system and/or archipelago traffic. As there is limited literature available on the subject, this thesis aims to contribute to a wider knowledge of what is required to enable a sustainable transition of a waterborne transport system. Moreover, due to high investment costs and risks associated with low- and zero emission vessels, waterborne transport is often not prioritized when transitioning a public transport system. Thus, the following research questions were answered: Which aspects are vital to enable a sustainable transition of a waterborne transport system? Which actors influence and play a crucial role in the sustainable transition of a waterborne transport system? To answer the research questions, a literature review and an interviewstudy was conducted. The results present seven major aspects, with related sub aspects, and fourteen actors were identified. The results uncover that there is a need for collaborations, clear division of roles along with responsibilities, renewed perception of waterborne transport’s possible adaptations and allocation of funding in order to enable a widespread sustainable transition of a waterborne transport system. Moreover, the thesis presents a matrix that can be used to uncover potential power and knowledge imbalances between the actors within the system. Lastly, the results of the thesis contributes to the field by allowing actors to gain insight of what is vital for a transition from a system perspective.