Data availability and access a challenge
THE University of the South Pacific’s Micronesian Center for Sustainable Transport (MCST) describes that one of the major challenges for the centre when dealing with research on projects is data availability.
Data availability and access are major challenges when doing research.
“There can always be more robust data sets. However, given the information already obtained, we know there is significant potential for improved service, connectivity and efficiency,” Project Cerulean officer Andrew Irvin said.
“One of the challenges to be surmounted is the monitoring and evaluation of the degree to which Project Cerulean encourages and realises these decentralised improvements.
“During Phase Two, this research effort should yield a unique case study of the intersection between transport, trade, and the benefits to both the socio-economic and environmental sustainability of Pacific Island countries.
“MCST is poised to present Project Cerulean’s findings for the region to draw additional lessons as trends arise and the information can be validated.”
Looking at setbacks to having small low carbon freighter vessels, Mr Irvin says they know that depending on the technology employed in the case of the Cerulean vessel, with a softsailing rig design expected — crewing requirements will involve other additional skill sets and activities.
“Maintenance requirements will also involve additional considerations,” he said.
“The voyaging experience is also responsive to the wind and variation in speed and direction are expected elements absent under fully motorised propulsion.”
Project Cerulean represents a joint research undertaking arranged between USP’s Micronesian Center for Sustainable Transport (MCST) and Swire Shipping.
It was announced during the Pacific Islands Transport Forum & Exposition hosted at USP in November, 2018.
The project aims to provide a model for more equitable, efficient, and comprehensive maritime transport services to connect remote populations across the nations of Oceania.