GREEN SHIP is a strategic project developed by SUBACUTIC whose objective is to create and implement a comprehensive system for the prevention, control, and verification of the risk of introduction and spread of invasive alien species associated with maritime traffic.
The project materializes in the creation of the GREEN SHIP verification label, intended for large vessels and shipowners, which certifies compliance with technical and scientific protocols for biofouling control, ballast water, and other biological transmission vectors. It was born with the aim of becoming a reference standard, scalable to Spain and the European Union.
Context and Mission
The GREEN SHIP project aligns with the objectives of the European Green Deal, the Biodiversity Strategy 2030, and the Integrated Maritime Policy. It is proposed as a pilot solution in Galicia, with special attention to the Rias Baixas, to protect strategic sectors such as the mussel farming industry.
The Problem: Invasive Species
International maritime traffic is one of the main vectors for introducing invasive alien species. GREEN SHIP proposes to move from a reactive to a preventive model, positioning Spain as a leader in maritime biosecurity.
Disruptive ROV Technology
ROV technology applied to vessel sanitation processes represents a radical change in the current methodology. It allows operations to be carried out in adverse circumstances without risk to human personnel and minimizes contaminant transmission.
- Reduction of economic and environmental costs.
- Extreme safety in maintenance processes.
- Elimination of cleaning residues.
- Improvement of port yields by not requiring dry dock.
Procedures and Methodology
Living Work
ROV inspection can be performed in less than an hour, without stopping the vessel's activity. It is broadcast live to the port authority and the shipping company. If fouling is detected, cleaning is carried out by cavitation (for vessels >30m) or rollers and suction (for smaller ones), collecting all residues.
Ballast Tanks
Through the action of ultrasound, we cause water cavitation to destroy organisms present in ballast tanks, avoiding biological contamination between ecosystems.
The Green Ship Seal
Once the inspection and adjustment operations are carried out, the "Green Ship" accreditation is granted. This certificate will be part of the vessel's registry, allowing port procedures to be streamlined and guaranteeing a commitment to energy and environmental efficiency.
Strategic Benefits
Proactive hull cleaning and certified maintenance not only protect biodiversity but also increase vessel efficiency, drastically reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. A clean hull can prevent up to a 55% increase in GHG emissions.
Diagnosis
Global maritime transport —responsible for more than 80% of international trade— is currently a major vector of:
Increase in CO₂ emissions due to biofouling on hulls Large-scale spread of invasive species Direct disruption of coastal economies and food systems Despite existing frameworks promoted by the International Maritime Organization, enforcement and prevention systems remain insufficient.
Strategic Solution
1. GREEN SHIP (Preventive System)
Ship certification and verification framework
Reduction of emissions and fuel consumption
Lower operating costs for shipping companies
Scalable to EU and US regulatory systems
2. INVASIVE CENSUS (Scientific Basis – URGENT)
Mapping and quantification of invasive marine species
Identification of reproductive cycles and expansion patterns
Scientific basis for effective eradication
3. Phase II (Global Eradication Technology)
Deployment of scalable eradication solutions
Replicable in coastal ecosystems worldwide
Strategic Impact
Climate: measurable reduction of CO₂ in global shipping
Economy: protection of aquaculture, fisheries, and logistics
Governance: EU and US leadership in marine biosecurity standards
Society: safeguarding food systems and coastal livelihoods
Initial Deployment
Galicia (Spain) – Atlantic Corridor → High-density shipping routes + aquaculture hub