Innovative Solutions for mitigating the environmental impact of waterborne transport in marine and aquatic Ecosystems (ZEWT Partnership)

Overview

Funding for research and innovation projects that develop and demonstrate solutions to mitigate the environmental impact of waterborne transport, particularly from renewable low and zero-carbon fuels, on marine and aquatic ecosystems. Targets consortia addressing pollution prevention, abatement technologies, and emergency response strategies.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., research institutions, industry, public bodies) from eligible countries, including EU Member States, associated countries, and select non-EU/non-associated countries with specific funding provisions.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €13,500,000
• Funding is provided as a lump sum.

What Is Funded

• Evaluation and forecasting of environmental impacts from waterborne transport, including renewable low and zero-carbon fuels and accidental spills.
• Development and demonstration of abatement technologies, mitigation systems, and emergency response strategies for marine, inland waters, and port areas.
• Modeling of pollution sources from ships using renewable fuels.
• Training and skills development for deploying solutions and managing renewable fuels.
• Stakeholder engagement to promote sustainable practices and environmental responsibility.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Projects must target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4 to 6.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-12-14
• Deadline: 2027-04-13

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal.
• Standard application and evaluation forms apply.

Post-Award Obligations

• Projects must report results to the Zero Emission Waterborne Transport (ZEWT) Partnership for KPI monitoring.
• The granting authority may object to transfers of ownership or exclusive licensing of results for up to 4 years post-project.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland.
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Projects using satellite-based data must utilize Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS.
• Proposals must adhere to page limits and layout requirements specified in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.