SETH

The SETH (Ship Emissions Treatment in Harbors) project was created to address the growing problem of air pollution in ports caused by ships, with a particular focus on the situation in Trieste. The main goal is to reduce harmful emissions released by berthed ships, even when their main engines are off and only auxiliary engines are running.

The SETH system is a prototype designed to capture and treat combustion fumes from ship chimneys. This is done through an Emissions Capture Device (ECD) that attaches to the chimney via a mechanical arm and a bonnet. The captured fumes are then conveyed to an Emissions Treatment Device (ETD), where pollutants are dry-abated before the treated fumes are released into the atmosphere.

The system is brought close to the ship by a barge, and the bonnet is positioned on the chimney with the aid of a video-assisted system. Once connected, the ship emits fumes only towards the abatement system. SETH is initially intended for the treatment of fumes from small to medium-sized ships.

The SETH project is funded through a call for proposals aimed at research and development projects in the complex industrial crisis area of Trieste. The initiative is led by AzzeroCO2, a company active in the field of sustainability that offers consulting services, emission compensation, and environmental engineering.