🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 51 (from laksa160)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa051.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://edition.cnn.com/2021/08/25/world/yara-birkeland-norway-crewless-container-ship-spc-intl\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://edition.cnn.com/2021/08/25/world/yara-birkeland-norway-crewless-container-ship-spc-intl\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/2021\/08\/25\/world\/yara-birkeland-norway-crewless-container-ship-spc-intl","crawl_time":1776759901,"first_indexed_time":1633576220,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,cnn!edition,\/2021\/08\/25\/world\/yara-birkeland-norway-crewless-container-ship-spc-intl s443","src_root_hash":"2312100192101524051","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"World’s first crewless, zero emissions cargo ship will set sail in Norway | CNN","meta_descriptions":["The Yara Birkeland is what its builders call the world’s first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Ad Feedback\nThese high-tech, low-emission innovations could be the future of transport\n1 of 13\nCNN\n — \nA Norwegian company has created what it calls the world’s first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship.\nIf all goes to plan, the ship will make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year, with a reduced crew on board to test the autonomous systems. Eventually, all movements will be monitored from three onshore data control centers.\nIt’s not the first autonomous ship – an autonomous ferry launched in Finland in\n2018\n– but it is the first fully electric container ship, say its makers. Developed by chemical company Yara International, the Yara Birkeland was designed to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides, which are\ntoxic pollutants and greenhouse gases\n, and carbon dioxide, as well as moving freight away from roads to the sea.\nAd Feedback\nAd Feedback\nThe shipping industry currently accounts for\nbetween 2.5% and 3%\nof global greenhouse gases emissions, according to the International Maritime Organization.\nNearly all of Norway’s electricity is generated by\nhydroelectric\npower, which is generally considered to have much\nlower\ncarbon emissions than burning fossil fuels, although it still produces\ngreenhouse gases\n.\nFirst conceptualized in 2017, the ship was created in partnership with technology firm Kongsberg Maritime and shipbuilder Vard. Capable of carrying 103 containers and with a top speed of\n13 knots\n, it will use a 7 MWh battery, with “about a thousand times the capacity of one electrical car,” according to Jon Sletten, plant manager for Yara’s factory in Porsgrunn, Norway.\nAd Feedback\nHe says it will be charged at the quayside “before sailing to container harbors along the coast and then back again, replacing 40,000 truck journeys a year.”\nAs well as providing a greener option compared to conventional cargo ships, Sletten says being crewless means it will be more cost effective to operate.\nInitially, loading and unloading the ship will require humans, but according to Sletten, all loading, discharging, and mooring operations, including berthing and unberthing the vessel, will also eventually operate using autonomous technology. That will involve developing autonomous cranes and straddle carriers – vehicles that place containers onto ships.\nThe Yara Birkeland was originally slated to set sail last year, but the Covid-19 pandemic coupled with logistical challenges delayed its launch.\n“We overestimated the scope of it in the beginning and started with too many activities in parallel,” says Sletten.\nAfter shifting the project from a fast track to a more step-by-step approach, Sletten hopes the ship will transport its first container from the town of Herøya to Brevik this year.\nThe project has also required regulations to be developed together with the Norwegian maritime authorities to allow an autonomous ship to navigate the country’s waterways for the first time.\nRudy Negenborn, a maritime and transport technology professor at Delft University of Technology, in the Netherlands, says fully autonomous vessels like the Yara Birkeland are the future. But he adds that there are many challenges to overcome before autonomous ships can be used for commercial long sea journeys.\nHe says navigating traffic in large ports (unlike the relatively quiet inland ports the Yara Birkeland will sail to) could be a major obstacle.\n“At some point, these ships will have to start interacting with each other so they can exchange information and create paths that are not conflicting,” he says.\nNegenborn adds that without a crew onboard to carry out maintenance checks, autonomous ships would need built-in self-diagnosing systems with the ability to detect and fix problems, or call for human assistance.\nBesides technical issues, he says there are also legal implications when looking at traveling between countries.\n“The Yara Birkeland operates along the Norwegian coast, but if it went further, then it might encounter other territorial regions with perhaps different rules and regulations that need to be met,” says Negenborn. “Who is liable if something goes wrong?”\nAlthough Yara International has no plans to add more autonomous ships to its operations, Sletten says we may see more elements of AI technology used on commercial ships in the future.\n“On overseas vessels is perhaps a step too far, but I think elements are already being used in shipping today when it comes to mooring and to the voyage,” he says. “I think we’ll see more partly autonomous elements added.”\nThis story has been updated with additional details about the ship’s inaugural launch.\nAd Feedback\nAd Feedback\nAd Feedback\nAd Feedback\nAd Feedback\nScan the QR code to download the CNN app on Google Play.\nScan the QR code to download the CNN app from the Apple Store.","attrs_markdown":"Thank You\\!\n\nYour effort and contribution in providing this feedback is much appreciated.\n\nClose\n\nAd 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App\n\n![Traders](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\n[![Traders](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)](https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/specials\/world\/traders)\n\nAd Feedback\n\n# World’s first crewless, zero emissions cargo ship will set sail in Norway\nBy Rochelle Beighton, CNN\n\n4 min read\n\nUpdated 3:03 PM EDT, Fri August 27, 2021\n\nLink Copied\\!\n\n![In the UAE, these futuristic-looking pods are undergoing testing on a \\<a href=\"https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/2021\/07\/08\/tech\/usky-pod-sharjah-uae-spc-intl\/index.html\" target=\"\\_blank\"\\>400-meter line\\<\/a\\> in Sharjah, which borders Dubai. Belarus-based uSky Transport says its pods can help cities solve traffic problems.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nIn the UAE, these futuristic-looking pods are undergoing testing on a [400-meter line](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/2021\/07\/08\/tech\/usky-pod-sharjah-uae-spc-intl\/index.html) in Sharjah, which borders Dubai. Belarus-based uSky Transport says its pods can help cities solve traffic problems.\n\nCourtesy uSky Transport\n\n![The Coradia iLint by French rail transport company Alstom is the world's first hydrogen-powered passenger train. It began testing in Germany in 2018, and in September 2020 entered regular service in Austria.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nThe Coradia iLint by French rail transport company Alstom is the world's first hydrogen-powered passenger train. It began testing in Germany in 2018, and in September 2020 entered regular service in Austria.\n\nMichael Wittwer\/Alstom\n\n![The Yara Birkeland is what its builders call the world's first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. The ship is scheduled to make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year. \\<strong\\>Click through to see more forms of transport set to transform the future.\\<\/strong\\>](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nThe Yara Birkeland is what its builders call the world's first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. The ship is scheduled to make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year. **Click through to see more forms of transport set to transform the future.**\n\nKnut Brevik Andersen\/Yara International ASA\n\n![Pictured here as a rendering, \\<a href=\"https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/travel\/article\/oceanbird-wind-powered-car-carrier-spc-intl\/index.html\" target=\"\\_blank\"\\>Oceanbird\\<\/a\\> is a wind-powered transatlantic car carrier that cuts carbon emissions by 90%, compared to a standard car carrier.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nPictured here as a rendering, [Oceanbird](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/travel\/article\/oceanbird-wind-powered-car-carrier-spc-intl\/index.html) is a wind-powered transatlantic car carrier that cuts carbon emissions by 90%, compared to a standard car carrier.\n\nCourtesy Oceanbird\n\n![It's not just maritime ships that are going green. Cities around the world are adopting electric ferries. Norwegian startup Zeabuz hopes its self-driving electric ferry (pictured here as a rendering) will help revive urban waterways.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nIt's not just maritime ships that are going green. Cities around the world are adopting electric ferries. Norwegian startup Zeabuz hopes its self-driving electric ferry (pictured here as a rendering) will help revive urban waterways.\n\nCourtesy Zeabuz\n\n![In China, a new Maglev high-speed train rolls off the production line in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, on July 20. It has a top speed of 600 km per hour -- currently the fastest ground vehicle available globally. ](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nIn China, a new Maglev high-speed train rolls off the production line in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, on July 20. It has a top speed of 600 km per hour -- currently the fastest ground vehicle available globally.\n\nLi Ziheng\/Xinhua\/Getty Images\n\n![Reaching speeds of up to 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) per hour, Hyperloop could be a sustainable replacement to short-haul flights. Dutch company Hardt (shown here as a rendering) started work on its Hyperloop test facility in Europe, anticipated to open in 2022.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nReaching speeds of up to 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) per hour, Hyperloop could be a sustainable replacement to short-haul flights. Dutch company Hardt (shown here as a rendering) started work on its Hyperloop test facility in Europe, anticipated to open in 2022.\n\nCourtesy Hardt Hyperloop\n\n![Hyperloop is like a bullet train, without tracks and rails. Floating pods are propelled through a low-pressure steel tube using magnetic levitation. Virgin has been running tests with passengers on its XP-2 vehicle, pictured here.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nHyperloop is like a bullet train, without tracks and rails. Floating pods are propelled through a low-pressure steel tube using magnetic levitation. Virgin has been running tests with passengers on its XP-2 vehicle, pictured here.\n\nCourtesy Virgin Hyperloop\n\n![Low carbon travel isn't just about switching to sustainable fuel sources -- it's also about redesigning the transport itself. A \"Flying-V\" plane designed by Delft's University of Technology in the Netherlands and Dutch airline KLM can cut fuel consumption by 20%. Ultimately, researchers hope to switch out the kerosene with a sustainable fuel source, like liquid hydrogen.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nLow carbon travel isn't just about switching to sustainable fuel sources -- it's also about redesigning the transport itself. A \"Flying-V\" plane designed by Delft's University of Technology in the Netherlands and Dutch airline KLM can cut fuel consumption by 20%. Ultimately, researchers hope to switch out the kerosene with a sustainable fuel source, like liquid hydrogen.\n\nEdwin Wallet for TU Delft\n\n![Hydrogen aviation could provide a sustainable solution for short and medium-haul flights. In September, Airbus unveiled plans for three hydrogen-powered, zero-emission aircraft which can carry 100 to 200 passengers. It hopes to launch the first ZEROe aircraft in 2035.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nHydrogen aviation could provide a sustainable solution for short and medium-haul flights. In September, Airbus unveiled plans for three hydrogen-powered, zero-emission aircraft which can carry 100 to 200 passengers. It hopes to launch the first ZEROe aircraft in 2035.\n\nCourtesy Airbus\n\n![In December 2019, Canadian airline Harbour Air flew the world's first all-electric, zero-emission commercial aircraft. The six-seater seaplane was retrofitted with magniX's magni500 all-electric motor. Harbour Air -- which carries \\<a href=\"https:\/\/www.harbourair.com\/about\/corporate-responsibility\/\" target=\"\\_blank\" target=\"\\_blank\"\\>half a million passengers\\<\/a\\> annually -- hopes to become the world's first all-electric airline. ](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nIn December 2019, Canadian airline Harbour Air flew the world's first all-electric, zero-emission commercial aircraft. The six-seater seaplane was retrofitted with magniX's magni500 all-electric motor. Harbour Air -- which carries [half a million passengers](https:\/\/www.harbourair.com\/about\/corporate-responsibility\/) annually -- hopes to become the world's first all-electric airline.\n\nDon MacKinnon\/AFP\/Getty Images\n\n![In the case of electric bikes, the future is now: one retailer reported the sale of e-bikes and e-scooters had increased \\<a href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/business\/2020\/sep\/08\/electric-bike-and-scooter-sales-boom-pushes-halford-back-to-growth-covid-19\" target=\"\\_blank\" target=\"\\_blank\"\\>230%\\<\/a\\> this year. E-bikes give the user a boost to their pedaling, allowing them to go further with less effort. E-bikes are now even available on ride-share apps, like Uber.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nIn the case of electric bikes, the future is now: one retailer reported the sale of e-bikes and e-scooters had increased [230%](https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/business\/2020\/sep\/08\/electric-bike-and-scooter-sales-boom-pushes-halford-back-to-growth-covid-19) this year. E-bikes give the user a boost to their pedaling, allowing them to go further with less effort. E-bikes are now even available on ride-share apps, like Uber.\n\nJustin Sullivan\/Getty Images\n\n![While sleeper trains or buses might be the way most of us get some shut-eye on overnight travel, this rendering of a \\<a href=\"https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/travel\/article\/autonomous-travel-suites\/index.html\" target=\"\\_blank\"\\>self-driving hotel\\<\/a\\> suite from Toronto-based designer Steve Lee of Aprilli Design Studio might offer a plush alternative in the future.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nWhile sleeper trains or buses might be the way most of us get some shut-eye on overnight travel, this rendering of a [self-driving hotel](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/travel\/article\/autonomous-travel-suites\/index.html) suite from Toronto-based designer Steve Lee of Aprilli Design Studio might offer a plush alternative in the future.\n\nCourtesy Aprilli Design Studio\n\n![In the UAE, these futuristic-looking pods are undergoing testing on a \\<a href=\"https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/2021\/07\/08\/tech\/usky-pod-sharjah-uae-spc-intl\/index.html\" target=\"\\_blank\"\\>400-meter line\\<\/a\\> in Sharjah, which borders Dubai. Belarus-based uSky Transport says its pods can help cities solve traffic problems.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nIn the UAE, these futuristic-looking pods are undergoing testing on a [400-meter line](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/2021\/07\/08\/tech\/usky-pod-sharjah-uae-spc-intl\/index.html) in Sharjah, which borders Dubai. Belarus-based uSky Transport says its pods can help cities solve traffic problems.\n\nCourtesy uSky Transport\n\n![The Coradia iLint by French rail transport company Alstom is the world's first hydrogen-powered passenger train. It began testing in Germany in 2018, and in September 2020 entered regular service in Austria.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nThe Coradia iLint by French rail transport company Alstom is the world's first hydrogen-powered passenger train. It began testing in Germany in 2018, and in September 2020 entered regular service in Austria.\n\nMichael Wittwer\/Alstom\n\n![The Yara Birkeland is what its builders call the world's first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. The ship is scheduled to make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year. \\<strong\\>Click through to see more forms of transport set to transform the future.\\<\/strong\\>](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nThe Yara Birkeland is what its builders call the world's first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. The ship is scheduled to make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year. **Click through to see more forms of transport set to transform the future.**\n\nKnut Brevik Andersen\/Yara International ASA\n\n![Pictured here as a rendering, \\<a href=\"https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/travel\/article\/oceanbird-wind-powered-car-carrier-spc-intl\/index.html\" target=\"\\_blank\"\\>Oceanbird\\<\/a\\> is a wind-powered transatlantic car carrier that cuts carbon emissions by 90%, compared to a standard car carrier.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nPictured here as a rendering, [Oceanbird](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/travel\/article\/oceanbird-wind-powered-car-carrier-spc-intl\/index.html) is a wind-powered transatlantic car carrier that cuts carbon emissions by 90%, compared to a standard car carrier.\n\nCourtesy Oceanbird\n##### These high-tech, low-emission innovations could be the future of transport\n1 of 13\n\nPrev\n\nNext\n\nCNN\n\n—\n\nA Norwegian company has created what it calls the world’s first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship.\n\nIf all goes to plan, the ship will make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year, with a reduced crew on board to test the autonomous systems. Eventually, all movements will be monitored from three onshore data control centers.\n\nIt’s not the first autonomous ship – an autonomous ferry launched in Finland in [2018](https:\/\/www.rolls-royce.com\/media\/press-releases\/2018\/03-12-2018-rr-and-finferries-demonstrate-worlds-first-fully-autonomous-ferry.aspx) – but it is the first fully electric container ship, say its makers. Developed by chemical company Yara International, the Yara Birkeland was designed to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides, which are [toxic pollutants and greenhouse gases](https:\/\/ec.europa.eu\/environment\/integration\/research\/newsalert\/pdf\/travelling_slower_reduces_fuel_consumption_and_nitrogen_oxides_emissions_of_ships_435na1_en.pdf), and carbon dioxide, as well as moving freight away from roads to the sea.\n\nAd Feedback\n\nAd Feedback\n\n![The Yara Birkeland is scheduled to make its first journey before the end of the year.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nThe Yara Birkeland is scheduled to make its first journey before the end of the year.\n\nYara International ASA\n\nThe shipping industry currently accounts for [between 2.5% and 3%](https:\/\/ec.europa.eu\/clima\/policies\/transport\/shipping_en) of global greenhouse gases emissions, according to the International Maritime Organization.\n\nNearly all of Norway’s electricity is generated by [hydroelectric](https:\/\/www.hydropower.org\/country-profiles\/norway) power, which is generally considered to have much [lower](https:\/\/www.sciencedaily.com\/releases\/2019\/11\/191113082959.htm) carbon emissions than burning fossil fuels, although it still produces [greenhouse gases](https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/bioscience\/article\/66\/11\/949\/2754271).\n\n[![Unilever's latest factory getting into position in Wageningen, Netherlands. Unilever is developing a fully functioning production line inside a 40-foot shipping container. ](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) Unilever's latest factory getting into position in Wageningen, Netherlands. Unilever is developing a fully functioning production line inside a 40-foot shipping container. Courtesy Unilever Related article This 'nano factory' fits inside a shipping container](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/2021\/06\/23\/europe\/nano-factory-shipping-container-spc-intl\/index.html)\n\nFirst conceptualized in 2017, the ship was created in partnership with technology firm Kongsberg Maritime and shipbuilder Vard. Capable of carrying 103 containers and with a top speed of [13 knots](https:\/\/www.yara.com\/news-and-media\/press-kits\/yara-birkeland-press-kit\/), it will use a 7 MWh battery, with “about a thousand times the capacity of one electrical car,” according to Jon Sletten, plant manager for Yara’s factory in Porsgrunn, Norway.\n\nAd Feedback\n\nHe says it will be charged at the quayside “before sailing to container harbors along the coast and then back again, replacing 40,000 truck journeys a year.”\n\n## Uncharted territory\nAs well as providing a greener option compared to conventional cargo ships, Sletten says being crewless means it will be more cost effective to operate.\n\nInitially, loading and unloading the ship will require humans, but according to Sletten, all loading, discharging, and mooring operations, including berthing and unberthing the vessel, will also eventually operate using autonomous technology. That will involve developing autonomous cranes and straddle carriers – vehicles that place containers onto ships.\n\n![A model launch of the zero-emission ship Yara Birkeland.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg)\n\nA model launch of the zero-emission ship Yara Birkeland.\n\nOle Martin Wold\n\nThe Yara Birkeland was originally slated to set sail last year, but the Covid-19 pandemic coupled with logistical challenges delayed its launch.\n\n“We overestimated the scope of it in the beginning and started with too many activities in parallel,” says Sletten.\n\nAfter shifting the project from a fast track to a more step-by-step approach, Sletten hopes the ship will transport its first container from the town of Herøya to Brevik this year.\n\nThe project has also required regulations to be developed together with the Norwegian maritime authorities to allow an autonomous ship to navigate the country’s waterways for the first time.\n\n## From container to commercial\nRudy Negenborn, a maritime and transport technology professor at Delft University of Technology, in the Netherlands, says fully autonomous vessels like the Yara Birkeland are the future. But he adds that there are many challenges to overcome before autonomous ships can be used for commercial long sea journeys.\n\nHe says navigating traffic in large ports (unlike the relatively quiet inland ports the Yara Birkeland will sail to) could be a major obstacle.\n\n[![A warehouse robot produced by Geek+.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) A warehouse robot produced by Geek+. Geek+ Related article This swarm of robots gets smarter the more it works](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/2021\/06\/15\/asia\/swarm-robots-hong-kong-warehouse-hnk-spc-intl\/index.html)\n\n“At some point, these ships will have to start interacting with each other so they can exchange information and create paths that are not conflicting,” he says.\n\nNegenborn adds that without a crew onboard to carry out maintenance checks, autonomous ships would need built-in self-diagnosing systems with the ability to detect and fix problems, or call for human assistance.\n\nBesides technical issues, he says there are also legal implications when looking at traveling between countries.\n\n“The Yara Birkeland operates along the Norwegian coast, but if it went further, then it might encounter other territorial regions with perhaps different rules and regulations that need to be met,” says Negenborn. “Who is liable if something goes wrong?”\n\nAlthough Yara International has no plans to add more autonomous ships to its operations, Sletten says we may see more elements of AI technology used on commercial ships in the future.\n\n“On overseas vessels is perhaps a step too far, but I think elements are already being used in shipping today when it comes to mooring and to the voyage,” he says. “I think we’ll see more partly autonomous elements added.”\n\nThis story has been updated with additional details about the ship’s inaugural launch.\n\nAd Feedback\n\nAd Feedback\n\nAd Feedback\n\nAd Feedback\n\nAd Feedback\n\nSubscribe\n\nSign in\n\nMy Account\n\n- [Settings](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/account\/settings)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/newsletters)\n- [Topics you follow](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/follow?iid=fw_var-nav)\n- [Sign out](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/2021\/08\/25\/world\/yara-birkeland-norway-crewless-container-ship-spc-intl)\n\nYour CNN account Sign in to your CNN account\n***\n[Live TV](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/live-tv)   [Listen](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/audio)   [Watch](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/watch)\n***\n- [World](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/world)\n  - 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A Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All Rights Reserved.   \n CNN Sans ™ & © 2016 Cable News Network.\n\n## Download the CNN app\nScan the QR code to download the CNN app on Google Play.\n\n![Scan the QR code to download the CNN app from Google Play.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/google-play-cnn-app-qr-code.png)\n\n## Download the CNN app\nScan the QR code to download the CNN app from the Apple Store.\n\n![Scan the QR code to download the CNN app from the Apple Store.](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/app-store-cnn-app-qr-code.png)\n\n![CNN Logo](https:\/\/www.cnn.com\/media\/sites\/cnn\/cnn.svg)\n\n## Legal Terms and Privacy\nBy clicking Agree, you have read and agree to the Terms of Use and agree to the collection and use of your information by cookies and similar technologies, as set forth in our Privacy Policy.\n\nBy clicking \"Agree\", you have read and agree to the [Terms of Use](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/terms) and agree to the collection and use of your information by cookies and similar technologies, as set forth in our [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/privacy).\n\n[Agree](https:\/\/edition.cnn.com\/2021\/08\/25\/world\/yara-birkeland-norway-crewless-container-ship-spc-intl)","attrs_readable_markdown":"Ad Feedback\n\n##### These high-tech, low-emission innovations could be the future of transport\n1 of 13\n\nCNN —\n\nA Norwegian company has created what it calls the world’s first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship.\n\nIf all goes to plan, the ship will make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year, with a reduced crew on board to test the autonomous systems. Eventually, all movements will be monitored from three onshore data control centers.\n\nIt’s not the first autonomous ship – an autonomous ferry launched in Finland in [2018](https:\/\/www.rolls-royce.com\/media\/press-releases\/2018\/03-12-2018-rr-and-finferries-demonstrate-worlds-first-fully-autonomous-ferry.aspx) – but it is the first fully electric container ship, say its makers. Developed by chemical company Yara International, the Yara Birkeland was designed to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides, which are [toxic pollutants and greenhouse gases](https:\/\/ec.europa.eu\/environment\/integration\/research\/newsalert\/pdf\/travelling_slower_reduces_fuel_consumption_and_nitrogen_oxides_emissions_of_ships_435na1_en.pdf), and carbon dioxide, as well as moving freight away from roads to the sea.\n\nAd Feedback\n\nAd Feedback\n\nThe shipping industry currently accounts for [between 2.5% and 3%](https:\/\/ec.europa.eu\/clima\/policies\/transport\/shipping_en) of global greenhouse gases emissions, according to the International Maritime Organization.\n\nNearly all of Norway’s electricity is generated by [hydroelectric](https:\/\/www.hydropower.org\/country-profiles\/norway) power, which is generally considered to have much [lower](https:\/\/www.sciencedaily.com\/releases\/2019\/11\/191113082959.htm) carbon emissions than burning fossil fuels, although it still produces [greenhouse gases](https:\/\/academic.oup.com\/bioscience\/article\/66\/11\/949\/2754271).\n\nFirst conceptualized in 2017, the ship was created in partnership with technology firm Kongsberg Maritime and shipbuilder Vard. Capable of carrying 103 containers and with a top speed of [13 knots](https:\/\/www.yara.com\/news-and-media\/press-kits\/yara-birkeland-press-kit\/), it will use a 7 MWh battery, with “about a thousand times the capacity of one electrical car,” according to Jon Sletten, plant manager for Yara’s factory in Porsgrunn, Norway.\n\nAd Feedback\n\nHe says it will be charged at the quayside “before sailing to container harbors along the coast and then back again, replacing 40,000 truck journeys a year.”\n\nAs well as providing a greener option compared to conventional cargo ships, Sletten says being crewless means it will be more cost effective to operate.\n\nInitially, loading and unloading the ship will require humans, but according to Sletten, all loading, discharging, and mooring operations, including berthing and unberthing the vessel, will also eventually operate using autonomous technology. That will involve developing autonomous cranes and straddle carriers – vehicles that place containers onto ships.\n\nThe Yara Birkeland was originally slated to set sail last year, but the Covid-19 pandemic coupled with logistical challenges delayed its launch.\n\n“We overestimated the scope of it in the beginning and started with too many activities in parallel,” says Sletten.\n\nAfter shifting the project from a fast track to a more step-by-step approach, Sletten hopes the ship will transport its first container from the town of Herøya to Brevik this year.\n\nThe project has also required regulations to be developed together with the Norwegian maritime authorities to allow an autonomous ship to navigate the country’s waterways for the first time.\n\nRudy Negenborn, a maritime and transport technology professor at Delft University of Technology, in the Netherlands, says fully autonomous vessels like the Yara Birkeland are the future. But he adds that there are many challenges to overcome before autonomous ships can be used for commercial long sea journeys.\n\nHe says navigating traffic in large ports (unlike the relatively quiet inland ports the Yara Birkeland will sail to) could be a major obstacle.\n\n“At some point, these ships will have to start interacting with each other so they can exchange information and create paths that are not conflicting,” he says.\n\nNegenborn adds that without a crew onboard to carry out maintenance checks, autonomous ships would need built-in self-diagnosing systems with the ability to detect and fix problems, or call for human assistance.\n\nBesides technical issues, he says there are also legal implications when looking at traveling between countries.\n\n“The Yara Birkeland operates along the Norwegian coast, but if it went further, then it might encounter other territorial regions with perhaps different rules and regulations that need to be met,” says Negenborn. “Who is liable if something goes wrong?”\n\nAlthough Yara International has no plans to add more autonomous ships to its operations, Sletten says we may see more elements of AI technology used on commercial ships in the future.\n\n“On overseas vessels is perhaps a step too far, but I think elements are already being used in shipping today when it comes to mooring and to the voyage,” he says. “I think we’ll see more partly autonomous elements added.”\n\nThis story has been updated with additional details about the ship’s inaugural launch.\n\nAd Feedback\n\nAd Feedback\n\nAd Feedback\n\nAd Feedback\n\nAd Feedback\n\nScan the QR code to download the CNN app on Google Play.\n\nScan the QR code to download the CNN app from the Apple Store.","meta_canonical":"com,cnn!www,\/2021\/08\/25\/world\/yara-birkeland-norway-crewless-container-ship-spc-intl s443"}

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Meta Title	World’s first crewless, zero emissions cargo ship will set sail in Norway \| CNN
Meta Description	The Yara Birkeland is what its builders call the world’s first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship.
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Boilerpipe Text	Ad Feedback These high-tech, low-emission innovations could be the future of transport 1 of 13 CNN — A Norwegian company has created what it calls the world’s first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. If all goes to plan, the ship will make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year, with a reduced crew on board to test the autonomous systems. Eventually, all movements will be monitored from three onshore data control centers. It’s not the first autonomous ship – an autonomous ferry launched in Finland in 2018 – but it is the first fully electric container ship, say its makers. Developed by chemical company Yara International, the Yara Birkeland was designed to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides, which are toxic pollutants and greenhouse gases , and carbon dioxide, as well as moving freight away from roads to the sea. Ad Feedback Ad Feedback The shipping industry currently accounts for between 2.5% and 3% of global greenhouse gases emissions, according to the International Maritime Organization. Nearly all of Norway’s electricity is generated by hydroelectric power, which is generally considered to have much lower carbon emissions than burning fossil fuels, although it still produces greenhouse gases . First conceptualized in 2017, the ship was created in partnership with technology firm Kongsberg Maritime and shipbuilder Vard. Capable of carrying 103 containers and with a top speed of 13 knots , it will use a 7 MWh battery, with “about a thousand times the capacity of one electrical car,” according to Jon Sletten, plant manager for Yara’s factory in Porsgrunn, Norway. Ad Feedback He says it will be charged at the quayside “before sailing to container harbors along the coast and then back again, replacing 40,000 truck journeys a year.” As well as providing a greener option compared to conventional cargo ships, Sletten says being crewless means it will be more cost effective to operate. Initially, loading and unloading the ship will require humans, but according to Sletten, all loading, discharging, and mooring operations, including berthing and unberthing the vessel, will also eventually operate using autonomous technology. That will involve developing autonomous cranes and straddle carriers – vehicles that place containers onto ships. The Yara Birkeland was originally slated to set sail last year, but the Covid-19 pandemic coupled with logistical challenges delayed its launch. “We overestimated the scope of it in the beginning and started with too many activities in parallel,” says Sletten. After shifting the project from a fast track to a more step-by-step approach, Sletten hopes the ship will transport its first container from the town of Herøya to Brevik this year. The project has also required regulations to be developed together with the Norwegian maritime authorities to allow an autonomous ship to navigate the country’s waterways for the first time. Rudy Negenborn, a maritime and transport technology professor at Delft University of Technology, in the Netherlands, says fully autonomous vessels like the Yara Birkeland are the future. But he adds that there are many challenges to overcome before autonomous ships can be used for commercial long sea journeys. He says navigating traffic in large ports (unlike the relatively quiet inland ports the Yara Birkeland will sail to) could be a major obstacle. “At some point, these ships will have to start interacting with each other so they can exchange information and create paths that are not conflicting,” he says. Negenborn adds that without a crew onboard to carry out maintenance checks, autonomous ships would need built-in self-diagnosing systems with the ability to detect and fix problems, or call for human assistance. Besides technical issues, he says there are also legal implications when looking at traveling between countries. “The Yara Birkeland operates along the Norwegian coast, but if it went further, then it might encounter other territorial regions with perhaps different rules and regulations that need to be met,” says Negenborn. “Who is liable if something goes wrong?” Although Yara International has no plans to add more autonomous ships to its operations, Sletten says we may see more elements of AI technology used on commercial ships in the future. “On overseas vessels is perhaps a step too far, but I think elements are already being used in shipping today when it comes to mooring and to the voyage,” he says. “I think we’ll see more partly autonomous elements added.” This story has been updated with additional details about the ship’s inaugural launch. Ad Feedback Ad Feedback Ad Feedback Ad Feedback Ad Feedback Scan the QR code to download the CNN app on Google Play. Scan the QR code to download the CNN app from the Apple Store.
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Belarus-based uSky Transport says its pods can help cities solve traffic problems.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) In the UAE, these futuristic-looking pods are undergoing testing on a [400-meter line](https://edition.cnn.com/2021/07/08/tech/usky-pod-sharjah-uae-spc-intl/index.html) in Sharjah, which borders Dubai. Belarus-based uSky Transport says its pods can help cities solve traffic problems. Courtesy uSky Transport ![The Coradia iLint by French rail transport company Alstom is the world's first hydrogen-powered passenger train. It began testing in Germany in 2018, and in September 2020 entered regular service in Austria.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) The Coradia iLint by French rail transport company Alstom is the world's first hydrogen-powered passenger train. It began testing in Germany in 2018, and in September 2020 entered regular service in Austria. Michael Wittwer/Alstom ![The Yara Birkeland is what its builders call the world's first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. The ship is scheduled to make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year. \<strong\>Click through to see more forms of transport set to transform the future.\</strong\>](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) The Yara Birkeland is what its builders call the world's first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. The ship is scheduled to make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year. Click through to see more forms of transport set to transform the future. Knut Brevik Andersen/Yara International ASA ![Pictured here as a rendering, \<a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/oceanbird-wind-powered-car-carrier-spc-intl/index.html" target="\_blank"\>Oceanbird\</a\> is a wind-powered transatlantic car carrier that cuts carbon emissions by 90%, compared to a standard car carrier.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) Pictured here as a rendering, [Oceanbird](https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/oceanbird-wind-powered-car-carrier-spc-intl/index.html) is a wind-powered transatlantic car carrier that cuts carbon emissions by 90%, compared to a standard car carrier. Courtesy Oceanbird ![It's not just maritime ships that are going green. Cities around the world are adopting electric ferries. Norwegian startup Zeabuz hopes its self-driving electric ferry (pictured here as a rendering) will help revive urban waterways.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) It's not just maritime ships that are going green. Cities around the world are adopting electric ferries. Norwegian startup Zeabuz hopes its self-driving electric ferry (pictured here as a rendering) will help revive urban waterways. Courtesy Zeabuz ![In China, a new Maglev high-speed train rolls off the production line in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, on July 20. It has a top speed of 600 km per hour -- currently the fastest ground vehicle available globally. ](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) In China, a new Maglev high-speed train rolls off the production line in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, on July 20. It has a top speed of 600 km per hour -- currently the fastest ground vehicle available globally. Li Ziheng/Xinhua/Getty Images ![Reaching speeds of up to 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) per hour, Hyperloop could be a sustainable replacement to short-haul flights. Dutch company Hardt (shown here as a rendering) started work on its Hyperloop test facility in Europe, anticipated to open in 2022.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) Reaching speeds of up to 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) per hour, Hyperloop could be a sustainable replacement to short-haul flights. Dutch company Hardt (shown here as a rendering) started work on its Hyperloop test facility in Europe, anticipated to open in 2022. Courtesy Hardt Hyperloop ![Hyperloop is like a bullet train, without tracks and rails. Floating pods are propelled through a low-pressure steel tube using magnetic levitation. Virgin has been running tests with passengers on its XP-2 vehicle, pictured here.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) Hyperloop is like a bullet train, without tracks and rails. Floating pods are propelled through a low-pressure steel tube using magnetic levitation. Virgin has been running tests with passengers on its XP-2 vehicle, pictured here. Courtesy Virgin Hyperloop ![Low carbon travel isn't just about switching to sustainable fuel sources -- it's also about redesigning the transport itself. A "Flying-V" plane designed by Delft's University of Technology in the Netherlands and Dutch airline KLM can cut fuel consumption by 20%. Ultimately, researchers hope to switch out the kerosene with a sustainable fuel source, like liquid hydrogen.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) Low carbon travel isn't just about switching to sustainable fuel sources -- it's also about redesigning the transport itself. A "Flying-V" plane designed by Delft's University of Technology in the Netherlands and Dutch airline KLM can cut fuel consumption by 20%. Ultimately, researchers hope to switch out the kerosene with a sustainable fuel source, like liquid hydrogen. Edwin Wallet for TU Delft ![Hydrogen aviation could provide a sustainable solution for short and medium-haul flights. In September, Airbus unveiled plans for three hydrogen-powered, zero-emission aircraft which can carry 100 to 200 passengers. It hopes to launch the first ZEROe aircraft in 2035.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) Hydrogen aviation could provide a sustainable solution for short and medium-haul flights. In September, Airbus unveiled plans for three hydrogen-powered, zero-emission aircraft which can carry 100 to 200 passengers. It hopes to launch the first ZEROe aircraft in 2035. Courtesy Airbus ![In December 2019, Canadian airline Harbour Air flew the world's first all-electric, zero-emission commercial aircraft. The six-seater seaplane was retrofitted with magniX's magni500 all-electric motor. Harbour Air -- which carries \<a href="https://www.harbourair.com/about/corporate-responsibility/" target="\_blank" target="\_blank"\>half a million passengers\</a\> annually -- hopes to become the world's first all-electric airline. ](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) In December 2019, Canadian airline Harbour Air flew the world's first all-electric, zero-emission commercial aircraft. The six-seater seaplane was retrofitted with magniX's magni500 all-electric motor. Harbour Air -- which carries [half a million passengers](https://www.harbourair.com/about/corporate-responsibility/) annually -- hopes to become the world's first all-electric airline. Don MacKinnon/AFP/Getty Images ![In the case of electric bikes, the future is now: one retailer reported the sale of e-bikes and e-scooters had increased \<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/sep/08/electric-bike-and-scooter-sales-boom-pushes-halford-back-to-growth-covid-19" target="\_blank" target="\_blank"\>230%\</a\> this year. E-bikes give the user a boost to their pedaling, allowing them to go further with less effort. E-bikes are now even available on ride-share apps, like Uber.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) In the case of electric bikes, the future is now: one retailer reported the sale of e-bikes and e-scooters had increased [230%](https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/sep/08/electric-bike-and-scooter-sales-boom-pushes-halford-back-to-growth-covid-19) this year. E-bikes give the user a boost to their pedaling, allowing them to go further with less effort. E-bikes are now even available on ride-share apps, like Uber. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images ![While sleeper trains or buses might be the way most of us get some shut-eye on overnight travel, this rendering of a \<a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/autonomous-travel-suites/index.html" target="\_blank"\>self-driving hotel\</a\> suite from Toronto-based designer Steve Lee of Aprilli Design Studio might offer a plush alternative in the future.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) While sleeper trains or buses might be the way most of us get some shut-eye on overnight travel, this rendering of a [self-driving hotel](https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/autonomous-travel-suites/index.html) suite from Toronto-based designer Steve Lee of Aprilli Design Studio might offer a plush alternative in the future. Courtesy Aprilli Design Studio ![In the UAE, these futuristic-looking pods are undergoing testing on a \<a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2021/07/08/tech/usky-pod-sharjah-uae-spc-intl/index.html" target="\_blank"\>400-meter line\</a\> in Sharjah, which borders Dubai. Belarus-based uSky Transport says its pods can help cities solve traffic problems.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) In the UAE, these futuristic-looking pods are undergoing testing on a [400-meter line](https://edition.cnn.com/2021/07/08/tech/usky-pod-sharjah-uae-spc-intl/index.html) in Sharjah, which borders Dubai. Belarus-based uSky Transport says its pods can help cities solve traffic problems. Courtesy uSky Transport ![The Coradia iLint by French rail transport company Alstom is the world's first hydrogen-powered passenger train. It began testing in Germany in 2018, and in September 2020 entered regular service in Austria.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) The Coradia iLint by French rail transport company Alstom is the world's first hydrogen-powered passenger train. It began testing in Germany in 2018, and in September 2020 entered regular service in Austria. Michael Wittwer/Alstom ![The Yara Birkeland is what its builders call the world's first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. The ship is scheduled to make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year. \<strong\>Click through to see more forms of transport set to transform the future.\</strong\>](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) The Yara Birkeland is what its builders call the world's first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. The ship is scheduled to make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year. Click through to see more forms of transport set to transform the future. Knut Brevik Andersen/Yara International ASA ![Pictured here as a rendering, \<a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/oceanbird-wind-powered-car-carrier-spc-intl/index.html" target="\_blank"\>Oceanbird\</a\> is a wind-powered transatlantic car carrier that cuts carbon emissions by 90%, compared to a standard car carrier.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) Pictured here as a rendering, [Oceanbird](https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/oceanbird-wind-powered-car-carrier-spc-intl/index.html) is a wind-powered transatlantic car carrier that cuts carbon emissions by 90%, compared to a standard car carrier. Courtesy Oceanbird ##### These high-tech, low-emission innovations could be the future of transport 1 of 13 Prev Next CNN — A Norwegian company has created what it calls the world’s first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. If all goes to plan, the ship will make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year, with a reduced crew on board to test the autonomous systems. Eventually, all movements will be monitored from three onshore data control centers. It’s not the first autonomous ship – an autonomous ferry launched in Finland in [2018](https://www.rolls-royce.com/media/press-releases/2018/03-12-2018-rr-and-finferries-demonstrate-worlds-first-fully-autonomous-ferry.aspx) – but it is the first fully electric container ship, say its makers. Developed by chemical company Yara International, the Yara Birkeland was designed to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides, which are [toxic pollutants and greenhouse gases](https://ec.europa.eu/environment/integration/research/newsalert/pdf/travelling_slower_reduces_fuel_consumption_and_nitrogen_oxides_emissions_of_ships_435na1_en.pdf), and carbon dioxide, as well as moving freight away from roads to the sea. Ad Feedback Ad Feedback ![The Yara Birkeland is scheduled to make its first journey before the end of the year.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) The Yara Birkeland is scheduled to make its first journey before the end of the year. Yara International ASA The shipping industry currently accounts for [between 2.5% and 3%](https://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/transport/shipping_en) of global greenhouse gases emissions, according to the International Maritime Organization. Nearly all of Norway’s electricity is generated by [hydroelectric](https://www.hydropower.org/country-profiles/norway) power, which is generally considered to have much [lower](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/11/191113082959.htm) carbon emissions than burning fossil fuels, although it still produces [greenhouse gases](https://academic.oup.com/bioscience/article/66/11/949/2754271). [![Unilever's latest factory getting into position in Wageningen, Netherlands. Unilever is developing a fully functioning production line inside a 40-foot shipping container. ](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) Unilever's latest factory getting into position in Wageningen, Netherlands. Unilever is developing a fully functioning production line inside a 40-foot shipping container. Courtesy Unilever Related article This 'nano factory' fits inside a shipping container](https://edition.cnn.com/2021/06/23/europe/nano-factory-shipping-container-spc-intl/index.html) First conceptualized in 2017, the ship was created in partnership with technology firm Kongsberg Maritime and shipbuilder Vard. Capable of carrying 103 containers and with a top speed of [13 knots](https://www.yara.com/news-and-media/press-kits/yara-birkeland-press-kit/), it will use a 7 MWh battery, with “about a thousand times the capacity of one electrical car,” according to Jon Sletten, plant manager for Yara’s factory in Porsgrunn, Norway. Ad Feedback He says it will be charged at the quayside “before sailing to container harbors along the coast and then back again, replacing 40,000 truck journeys a year.” ## Uncharted territory As well as providing a greener option compared to conventional cargo ships, Sletten says being crewless means it will be more cost effective to operate. Initially, loading and unloading the ship will require humans, but according to Sletten, all loading, discharging, and mooring operations, including berthing and unberthing the vessel, will also eventually operate using autonomous technology. That will involve developing autonomous cranes and straddle carriers – vehicles that place containers onto ships. ![A model launch of the zero-emission ship Yara Birkeland.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) A model launch of the zero-emission ship Yara Birkeland. Ole Martin Wold The Yara Birkeland was originally slated to set sail last year, but the Covid-19 pandemic coupled with logistical challenges delayed its launch. “We overestimated the scope of it in the beginning and started with too many activities in parallel,” says Sletten. After shifting the project from a fast track to a more step-by-step approach, Sletten hopes the ship will transport its first container from the town of Herøya to Brevik this year. The project has also required regulations to be developed together with the Norwegian maritime authorities to allow an autonomous ship to navigate the country’s waterways for the first time. ## From container to commercial Rudy Negenborn, a maritime and transport technology professor at Delft University of Technology, in the Netherlands, says fully autonomous vessels like the Yara Birkeland are the future. But he adds that there are many challenges to overcome before autonomous ships can be used for commercial long sea journeys. He says navigating traffic in large ports (unlike the relatively quiet inland ports the Yara Birkeland will sail to) could be a major obstacle. [![A warehouse robot produced by Geek+.](https://edition.cnn.com/media/sites/cnn/cnn-fallback-image.jpg) A warehouse robot produced by Geek+. Geek+ Related article This swarm of robots gets smarter the more it works](https://edition.cnn.com/2021/06/15/asia/swarm-robots-hong-kong-warehouse-hnk-spc-intl/index.html) “At some point, these ships will have to start interacting with each other so they can exchange information and create paths that are not conflicting,” he says. Negenborn adds that without a crew onboard to carry out maintenance checks, autonomous ships would need built-in self-diagnosing systems with the ability to detect and fix problems, or call for human assistance. Besides technical issues, he says there are also legal implications when looking at traveling between countries. “The Yara Birkeland operates along the Norwegian coast, but if it went further, then it might encounter other territorial regions with perhaps different rules and regulations that need to be met,” says Negenborn. “Who is liable if something goes wrong?” Although Yara International has no plans to add more autonomous ships to its operations, Sletten says we may see more elements of AI technology used on commercial ships in the future. “On overseas vessels is perhaps a step too far, but I think elements are already being used in shipping today when it comes to mooring and to the voyage,” he says. “I think we’ll see more partly autonomous elements added.” This story has been updated with additional details about the ship’s inaugural launch. 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Readable Markdown	Ad Feedback ##### These high-tech, low-emission innovations could be the future of transport 1 of 13 CNN — A Norwegian company has created what it calls the world’s first zero-emission, autonomous cargo ship. If all goes to plan, the ship will make its first journey between two Norwegian towns before the end of the year, with a reduced crew on board to test the autonomous systems. Eventually, all movements will be monitored from three onshore data control centers. It’s not the first autonomous ship – an autonomous ferry launched in Finland in [2018](https://www.rolls-royce.com/media/press-releases/2018/03-12-2018-rr-and-finferries-demonstrate-worlds-first-fully-autonomous-ferry.aspx) – but it is the first fully electric container ship, say its makers. Developed by chemical company Yara International, the Yara Birkeland was designed to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides, which are [toxic pollutants and greenhouse gases](https://ec.europa.eu/environment/integration/research/newsalert/pdf/travelling_slower_reduces_fuel_consumption_and_nitrogen_oxides_emissions_of_ships_435na1_en.pdf), and carbon dioxide, as well as moving freight away from roads to the sea. Ad Feedback Ad Feedback The shipping industry currently accounts for [between 2.5% and 3%](https://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/transport/shipping_en) of global greenhouse gases emissions, according to the International Maritime Organization. Nearly all of Norway’s electricity is generated by [hydroelectric](https://www.hydropower.org/country-profiles/norway) power, which is generally considered to have much [lower](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/11/191113082959.htm) carbon emissions than burning fossil fuels, although it still produces [greenhouse gases](https://academic.oup.com/bioscience/article/66/11/949/2754271). First conceptualized in 2017, the ship was created in partnership with technology firm Kongsberg Maritime and shipbuilder Vard. Capable of carrying 103 containers and with a top speed of [13 knots](https://www.yara.com/news-and-media/press-kits/yara-birkeland-press-kit/), it will use a 7 MWh battery, with “about a thousand times the capacity of one electrical car,” according to Jon Sletten, plant manager for Yara’s factory in Porsgrunn, Norway. Ad Feedback He says it will be charged at the quayside “before sailing to container harbors along the coast and then back again, replacing 40,000 truck journeys a year.” As well as providing a greener option compared to conventional cargo ships, Sletten says being crewless means it will be more cost effective to operate. Initially, loading and unloading the ship will require humans, but according to Sletten, all loading, discharging, and mooring operations, including berthing and unberthing the vessel, will also eventually operate using autonomous technology. That will involve developing autonomous cranes and straddle carriers – vehicles that place containers onto ships. The Yara Birkeland was originally slated to set sail last year, but the Covid-19 pandemic coupled with logistical challenges delayed its launch. “We overestimated the scope of it in the beginning and started with too many activities in parallel,” says Sletten. After shifting the project from a fast track to a more step-by-step approach, Sletten hopes the ship will transport its first container from the town of Herøya to Brevik this year. The project has also required regulations to be developed together with the Norwegian maritime authorities to allow an autonomous ship to navigate the country’s waterways for the first time. Rudy Negenborn, a maritime and transport technology professor at Delft University of Technology, in the Netherlands, says fully autonomous vessels like the Yara Birkeland are the future. But he adds that there are many challenges to overcome before autonomous ships can be used for commercial long sea journeys. He says navigating traffic in large ports (unlike the relatively quiet inland ports the Yara Birkeland will sail to) could be a major obstacle. “At some point, these ships will have to start interacting with each other so they can exchange information and create paths that are not conflicting,” he says. Negenborn adds that without a crew onboard to carry out maintenance checks, autonomous ships would need built-in self-diagnosing systems with the ability to detect and fix problems, or call for human assistance. Besides technical issues, he says there are also legal implications when looking at traveling between countries. “The Yara Birkeland operates along the Norwegian coast, but if it went further, then it might encounter other territorial regions with perhaps different rules and regulations that need to be met,” says Negenborn. “Who is liable if something goes wrong?” Although Yara International has no plans to add more autonomous ships to its operations, Sletten says we may see more elements of AI technology used on commercial ships in the future. “On overseas vessels is perhaps a step too far, but I think elements are already being used in shipping today when it comes to mooring and to the voyage,” he says. “I think we’ll see more partly autonomous elements added.” This story has been updated with additional details about the ship’s inaugural launch. Ad Feedback Ad Feedback Ad Feedback Ad Feedback Ad Feedback Scan the QR code to download the CNN app on Google Play. 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