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interesting as most data concerning underwater noise pollution addresses only propeller cavitation and though we have addressed propeller design in recent builds, the fact that other op- erating system could add “noise” was not considered in the design effort.

Why all the chatter about ship noise?

On October 10, 2008, NMFS pub- lished a fi nal rule (73 FR 60173) that established vessel speed restrictions to reduce the likelihood of deaths and serious injuries to endangered North

Atlantic right whales from collisions with vessels. The regulation limited vessel speeds to 10 knots or less for vessels 65 ft (19.8 m) or greater in overall length in certain locations and at certain times of the year along the east coast of the U.S. Atlantic sea- board. The regulation contained a provision that allows for an exception to the speed restriction when navi- gational safety requires a deviation.

This rule also contained a provision whereby the regulation would expire (or “sunset”) on December 9, 2013.

The sunset provision was removed and the regulations remain in place.

Nevertheless, though environmen- tally responsible, the speed reductions cause economic harm and in some cases dangers of navigation.

The industry’s continued attempt to increase effi ciency, reduce emissions and remain environmentally sustain- able has introduced new technologies.

An effort to use these technologies to address collateral issues should con- tinue to avoid regulation and address the problems as “guidelines.” There are better ways to solve the problems beyond restrictions, limits and regula- tion. Let solid design and engineering be our path forward to environmental sustainability.

PROPULSION

Robert Kunkel, President of Alternative Marine Technologies, is currently serving as the technical advisor to Coastal Connect, a U.S. company actively developing LNG propulsion as a maritime component of short sea shipping. He is a past Vice President of the Connecticut Maritime

Association, Past Chairman of the Federal Short Sea Shipping Cooperative

Program and a member of the ABS Special Committee on Ship Operations. MN 57www.marinelink.com

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