To tackle the significant increase in traffic congestion and pollution in urban areas, waterborne transport systems can offer a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative, decreasing traffic congestion on roads, noise, and pollution emissions, with reduced infrastructure requirements. Developing a sustainable waterborne passenger system requires a multidisciplinary approach and a systemic view, which involves various stakeholders and knowledge. Digital transition can encourage a better management of resources and enables systems integration promoting circular economy and ecosystem models, which create interrelations among systems. The aim of this study is to identify circular practices adopted in the waterborne passenger mobility (WPM) ecosystem driven by digital technologies. A holistic perspective which considers all the system of actors and their mutual interactions has been adopted. Five case studies have been selected in Northern Europe and analyzed by applying the Smart Circular WPM Ecosystem framework, previously developed by the authors. The analysis identifies a list of Smart Circular practices resulting from the application of digital technologies during specific lifecycle stages, involving certain actors’ categories, and enabling circular principles. The case studies analysis also highlighted unexplored or under-considered fields of action which can be the base for further research.

The transition to sustainable transportation and the decarbonization of the waterborne sector represents significant global challenges. This study explores the potential of hydrogen as a zero-emission fuel for passenger vessels, addressing the need for an ecosystemic design methodology. By adopting a design-in-practice approach, the study presents a comprehensive methodology for hydrogen early-stage vessel design, streamlining the steps towards the IMO Alternative Design process. The study is part of EU-funded project e-SHyIPS, aiming to define the new guidelines for an effective introduction of hydrogen in the maritime passenger transport sector. Through theoretical studies, ship design experiments, feasibility, and safety system assessments, this research provides a methodology that serves as a guideline for maritime professionals. Furthermore, three case studies investigate the practical aspects of integrating hydrogen fuel cells into vessel architecture and their impact on performance and safety aspects. The findings of this research aim to facilitate the widespread adoption of hydrogen in waterborne transportation, significantly contributing to the European Green Deal and the International Maritime Organization’s decarbonization goals. By establishing a structured methodology and a supportive regulatory framework, the e-SHyIPS project supports the maritime industry’s transition towards sustainable and zero-emission practices.

The emergence of climate change is affecting society, economy, and businesses around the world. To tackle this issue, the European Commission has introduced a series of legislative measures aimed at achieving climate neutrality in the EU by 2050. The whole transport sector will have to make a significant endeavor to achieve the goal. In recent years, waterborne public transport services have become an integral component of urban landscapes in numerous cities worldwide. Waterborne mobility can constitute a sustainable alternative in terms of energy consumption, noise, and pollution emissions. It reduces traffic congestion both on roads and on the railroad, supporting more livable cities. However, there are still challenges to overcome to fully realize the sustainable potential of waterborne passenger mobility (WPM). To address these challenges and promote innovative and sustainable strategies, a holistic approach is required that considers the complex interactions among actors in the WPM ecosystem, including passengers, operators, regulators, and services providers. To achieve a sustainable and circular WPM ecosystem, digitalization can play a critical role. Several studies have shown that digital technologies can promote Circular Economy and circular strategies. Through a literature review, this paper explores the concept of ecosystem and Smart Circular Economy within the waterborne passenger mobility system, aiming to outline the WPM ecosystem and its relationship with smart circular strategies. Finally, the Smart Circular WPM Ecosystem was defined, and a framework was established to provide a foundation for advancing research on designing the waterborne passenger mobility sector towards a technological and circular transition.