VOICED: Kites pulling their weight for the environment

The video discusses the use of large kites, known as sky sails, to propel cargo ships, offering a greener transportation method. These kites can save up to 10 tons of fuel and reduce CO2 emissions by 30 tons daily. After a decade of development, sky sails are market-ready, with successful tests on the North Sea. The kites operate at high altitudes, making figure-eight motions to optimize energy capture. The system has been positively received, with minimal technical issues, and is seen as a promising solution amid rising oil prices.

What is the primary environmental benefit of using sky sails on cargo ships?

• Lower construction costs

• Faster travel times

• Reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions

• Increased cargo capacity

How high above the water surface are the sky sails typically released?

• 200 meters

• 150 meters or more

• 100 meters

• 50 meters

What motion do the sky sails make once in the air to optimize energy capture?

• Straight line

• Figure 8

• Circular

• Zigzag

What was the experience of adapting the first boat with the sky sail system?

• It took several months and faced many technical issues

• It was completed in one weekend with no technical problems

• It required a complete redesign of the ship

• It was abandoned due to high costs

What factor might accelerate the adoption of sky sails in the future?

• Stricter maritime regulations

• Rising oil prices

• Decreasing oil prices

• Increased shipbuilding costs