Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1538408
SMARTER DESIGNS, BETTER OUTCOMES With increasingly stringent sustainability targets drawing closer on the horizon, many shipbuilders have sought design modifications that reduce emissions and energy use right now, rather than waiting or guessing at which future fuel might emerge. The 2022-built Mark W. Barker embodies this kind of practical, present-term progress. The first U.S.-flagged freighter built on the Great Lakes in four decades, the Mark W. Barker is fitted with two EPA Tier 4 diesel engines—the first of their kind on the Great Lakes—and a cutting-edge Selective Catalytic Reduction exhaust system to further cut greenhouse gas emissions. These engines can also run on liquified natural gas in the future, if infrastructure can support the alternative fuel. Beyond advanced engines, the vessel also features a Hogner stern, which increases the propeller's hydrodynamic effi- ciency for reduced fuel consumption. Additionally, the Mark W. Barker has two 2,500 kW shaft generators, which allow the main engines to generate electricity. This reduces usage of the ship's service generator. Even the vessel construction process itself came with a mini- mized environmental footprint, since it used domestically pro- duced steel, most of which was forged on the Great Lakes from iron ore that crossed Lake Superior. DESIGNED FOR VERSATILITY Across the sea and through the Seaway for the first time in April 2025 (and hopefully appearing in Duluth- Superior soon), vessels in the BBC Chartering LakerMax fleet showcase advancements in oceangoing triple-decker design. Each ship is thoughtfully proportioned to maximize cargo volume while still fitting Seaway size parameters. Enhanced hull forms— smoother and more streamlined—reduce water resistance, and advanced coatings help them glide further on less fuel. The twin cranes and spacious weather deck make these vessels capable of handling larger and varied cargoes, including wind turbine blades and heavy-lift pieces. Design changes allow LakerMax ships to achieve as much as a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per freight-ton com- pared to earlier generations—proof that environmental and oper- ational gains can align without drastic shifts in fuel supply chains. PROGRESS BY DEGREES Both fleets show that progress can be made and measured not just by massive futuristic breakthroughs, but by deliberate, achievable steps. Lower fuel consumption, reduced emissions and greater operating flexibility mean these vessels deliver tan- gible environmental and economic benefits now, while keeping the door open for even greener retrofits in the future. This pragmatic approach offers a blueprint for near-term innovation. By leveraging smart engineering and incremental improvement, Great Lakes shipping is not only meeting today's regulatory demands but also demonstrating that sustainability need not wait for tomorrow's technology to make a difference. 10 | NORTH STAR PORT | SUMMER 2025 S U S TA I N A B L E S H I P P I N G 1. Tier 4 Diesel Engines OLDER: Conventional diesel engines emit higher levels of greenhouse gases. IMPROVED: Tier 4 engines meet strict EPA standards. BENEFIT: Cleaner air, lower greenhouse gases, meets future regulations. 2. Flat-Bottom Cargo Hold OLDER: V-shaped holds limited to free-flowing cargo. IMPROVED: Flat-bottom holds carry varied cargo, like wind energy components. BENEFIT: More flexibility, faster port turnaround, more cargo options. 3. Hogner Stern OLDER: Traditional stern creates drag and wastes fuel. IMPROVED: Smooth water flow increases propeller efficiency. BENEFIT: Lower fuel use and emissions. 4. Shaft Generators OLDER: Separate diesel generators for onboard power. IMPROVED: Generators use main engine power while underway. BENEFIT: Cuts fuel use, maintenance and emissions. All Together Now These upgrades reduce fuel consumption, emissions and costs, while boosting flexibility and preparing ships for future fuels and new regulations. FORGING AHEAD PHOTO / Bob Welton