Tackling plastic pollution the zero emissions way
A UK boatbuilder has launched a zero-emission vessel that responds to the increasing need for plastic and debris collection on the water.
The Envirocat All-Electric Eco 8.5 from MMS Workboats, a division of MMS Ship Repair & Dry Dock Co Ltd. (MMS), is designed to support pollution control at harbours, ports and inland waterways.
“The Envirocat All-Electric Eco 8.5 is the latest version of our popular Envirocat pollution control range, and marks a significant milestone in our commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation,” said Rob Langton, managing director, MMS Workboats.
”We are proud to introduce a zero-emission vessel that not only helps clean our waterways but also supports the growth of eco-conscious industries like aquaculture, without a hefty price tag. This launch underscores our dedication to providing efficient, reliable, and eco-friendly solutions to our customers.”
Innovative
Recent studies found 5000 pieces of plastic and 150 plastic bottles for each mile of UK beaches, with most of this waste entering seas and oceans through rivers and inland waterways.
Envirocat All-Electric Eco 8.5, developed in conjunction with Naval Architecture Firm Rockabill Marine Design, is the brainchild of Mr Langton, in response to the increasing need for plastic removal from waterways worldwide.
The 8.5 metre vessel can be operated by a single user, enabling efficient, cost effective and environmentally friendly clearance of plastic and flotsam from the water’s surface.
Powered by two electric outboards, the Envirocat All-Electric Eco 8.5 vessel produces zero emissions, contributing to a cleaner and greener environment.
It’s designed to efficiently collect floating plastic and debris from the water’s surface, with the capacity to hold up to 3m³ of waste in its collection cartridge.
It’s suited to a wide range of applications, including clearing harbours, ports, marinas, lakes, and canals, as well as supporting fish farming and aquaculture operations as a general workboat.
Alongside the ability to easily support an eight hour working day, the operational cost of the Envirocat All-Electric Eco 8.5 is impressively low, at just GB£2 per hour (based on 2023 UK electric costs of 34p per kWh).
Those interested in the Envirocat All-Electric Eco 8.5 are invited to arrange a visit to MMS’ shipyard in Hull, Yorkshire UK, for trials using MMS’ demonstration vessel.
