NAIADES II
NAIADES is an action program of the European Commission to promote European inland navigation . In the new program "NAIADES II - More Quality in Inland Shipping" further initiatives are taken to further develop this mode of transport .
Inland shipping funding program NAIADES II
The inland navigation funding program, which is set to run for seven years, includes infrastructure, environmental compatibility, intermodality and personnel development. The European Commission emphasizes that the transport of general cargo and bulk goods on inland waterways must be expanded considerably in order to relieve the heavily used roads and rails. This enables climate-friendly, energy-efficient and sustainable transport on Europe's inland waterways.
Environmental quality through lower emissions
With regard to ship technology , innovations in favor of alternative fuels and energies and especially the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) are to be promoted. In this way, inland shipping should increase the advantage in terms of sustainability in competition with other modes of transport. Other tasks include expanding the bunker options for liquefied natural gas and optimizing the systems for exhaust gas aftertreatment. The network of waste collection points is also being expanded in such a way that the handing over of waste to inland waterway transport becomes everyday practice.
Integration of inland shipping into the multimodal logistics chain
With regard to the infrastructure, the expansion of the TEN- V network is an important goal. In addition, inland shipping is to take a stronger place in the logistics chains in seaport hinterland transport and intercontinental transport. An observatory for inland navigation in Europe will be set up to provide a better overview and analysis.
Training and intermodality and human resource development
“Qualified workers and high quality jobs” is another key area of the project. It is therefore crucial to modernize and harmonize professional qualifications across Europe. Sustainable, low-emission inland shipping can only be carried out in the EU if a qualified workforce is available.