NEWS: “Adriatic Ports in Transition” Conference in Zadar, Croatia
In July 2025, the CIRASIM project was proudly presented in Zadar at the “Adriatic Ports in Transition” Conference, bringing together maritime experts to discuss greener and smarter ports.
The city of Zadar hosted the prominent conference “Transition of Adriatic Ports for Sustainable and Green Business,” gathering leading experts, policymakers, and representatives of the scientific community.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the CIRASIM project, which addresses one of the most critical technological shifts in modern maritime transport – the implementation of onshore power supply systems.
What is CIRASIM?
The CIRASIM project (Cold IRoning ASsessment Implementation Model), funded under the Interreg ADRION Programme, is at the forefront of efforts to decarbonize the maritime sector.
The project focuses on cold ironing technology – a process that allows ships to turn off their auxiliary engines while at berth and connect to the local shore-side electrical grid.
Key Objectives and Project Impact
- Emission reduction – Eliminating exhaust gases and particulate matter while vessels are docked in populated port areas.
- Noise mitigation – By shutting down ship engines, the system significantly improves the quality of life for residents in port cities such as Zadar.
- Implementation modeling – Developing assessment models and strategic guidelines to assist port authorities in planning and deploying this complex infrastructure.
- Green energy integration – Linking port infrastructure with renewable energy sources to ensure a truly carbon-neutral footprint.
Significance for Zadar and the Adriatic Region
The participation of the CIRASIM team at this conference underscores Zadar’s active role in shaping the “ports of the future.” Implementing shore-side power requires precise technical planning and close cooperation between academia, the energy sector, and port authorities – the very core of the CIRASIM model.
Through this project, the University of Zadar and its partners are ensuring the transfer of knowledge and technology necessary for Adriatic ports to remain competitive while preserving the purity of the sea and air.
Professor Dino Županović, Full Professor at the Maritime Department of the University of Zadar and Project Manager of CIRASIM, emphasized:
“Cold ironing technology is no longer just an option; it is a necessity within the framework of European environmental directives. CIRASIM provides the concrete tools needed to make this transition efficient and sustainable.”