About Aqua Connect

The global shipping industry is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, responsible for transporting over 90% of goods by volume and emitting around 700 million metric tons of CO₂ annually. Cargo ships typically emit about 40 grams of CO₂ per metric ton of cargo transported over one kilometer. Current shipping routes are inefficient, often requiring vessels to detour around elevated terrain, which increases travel distances, fuel consumption, and emissions. These inefficiencies lead to environmental harm, economic costs, and missed opportunities for sustainable development in bypassed areas.

My team and I designed Aqua Connect to tackle these challenges by creating a modern waterway system that transports ships over elevated topography, significantly reducing route distances. Our solution uses a network of water isolation chambers, enabling vessels to "climb" or descend across varying elevations without the need for extensive detours. By shortening travel routes, we not only decrease carbon emissions but also offer a faster, eco-friendly alternative to traditional shipping paths.

Our team developed the Aqua Connect prototype with water level control chambers that incorporate servo motors, ultrasonic sensors, Arduino boards, and hydraulic actuators. This setup allows precise control over water levels to safely and efficiently lift or lower vessels as they navigate through elevated terrain. We successfully showcased this system at the World Robotics Olympiad (WRO) Nationals, where it received a Silver Badge for its innovative approach to reducing environmental impact in shipping logistics.

Through Aqua Connect, we aim to reduce shipping emissions by cutting travel distances by up to 150 kilometers for each route in a controlled test case, potentially saving around 6 kilograms of CO₂ emissions per ship journey. When scaled, our solution could lower the industry’s carbon footprint significantly, supporting global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Aqua Connect also presents an opportunity for local communities by fostering development around new waterway infrastructure, offering sustainable growth without harming the environment.