Greenheart Project in line for prize

Greenheart is one of 10 nominees, which were chosen based on innovation, economic worth, technological advancement and social value, for the ‘Vernufteling Prize’.

Pat Utley, project director, Greenheart, told GreenPort: “We are happy to receive this recognition for our ship concept, and also for ‘Appropriate Design’ in general, since engineering for both sides of the economic divide and the environment has been our greatest challenge.”

Gavin Allwright, commercial director, added: “It is a brilliant way to look at engineering – not just how clever engineering is, but while also taking into consideration the short term and long term implications.”

The organisation’s small solar-sail vessel is specially designed for use in developing countries as an ocean-going hybrid that uses a combination of traditional sail and solar power.

Launched early last year, it produces no emissions and Greenheart says is easier to use and maintain. Its shallow draft also means it can access miles of undeveloped, underserved coastline and rivers, and can load and unload cargo both on and off shore.

The prize is awarded annually to the initiative that promises to have a significant social and economic impact. Over the past eight years, 83 engineering firms have submitted a total of 376 ideas, projects and innovative solutions to the Vernufteling Prize.

Voting by the general public is open now until 15 March here. To vote for Greenheart, choose AA Planadvies-Groen vrachtschip voor eilandengroep.