Words by Tess Becker
In order to innovate we’re looking to the past. A cargo ship is ditching combustion engines and instead using giant metal sails to bring it across the ocean in a more eco-friendly way.
Called WindWings, the large wing sails measure around 100 feet in height and can be added to the deck of commercial vessels, and the first ship with it was the Pyxis Ocean, which has two WindWings added to it.
The sails were made by Yara Marine Technologies and should generate average fuel savings of up to 30% on new vessels, which could be even higher if used in combination with alternative fuels.
WindWings was in part funded by the European Union and is an option to semi-decarbonize existing ships without having to fully retrofit them or make new ships.
According to a Cargill release, on an average global route, WindWings can save 1.5 tonnes of fuel per WindWing per day—with the possibility of saving more on trans-ocean routes.
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Women Invested to Save Earth Fund. This organization helps support underrepresented and underfunded Black, indigenous, and women of color-led organizations across the world. Find out more and support them here.
Florida Bicycle Association. An organization that helps mobilize people and promote greener living and safer biking. Find out more.
Collective Sun. They help nonprofits get outfitted with solar power capabilities. Check them out here.
