Green Award for Crane Vessel Rival (1965): Certified Sustainable
Author: Jeroen Berger • Publication date:
In 2017, the crane vessel Rival, operated by sand dredging and transshipment company Van der Waal B.V. from Papendrecht, the Netherlands, was awarded a Silver Green Award. This achievement demonstrated that even an inland vessel dating from 1965—if well-maintained and sustainably upgraded—can qualify for a prestigious sustainability certification. Van der Waal received expert guidance from Berger Maritiem throughout the certification process.
Sustainability as a Strategic Condition
The motivation behind these sustainability measures was the long-term collaboration with the Port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, which is committed to a cleaner logistics chain and aims to become the world’s most sustainable port. By making the Rival future-proof, Van der Waal secured long-term operations in Dutch ports, including Rotterdam, and positioned itself more firmly for future projects.
Technical Upgrades and Emission Measures
The crane vessel was equipped with a new Volvo D16 main engine, meeting the CCR2 emission standard. Additionally, a Stage V-ready retrofit solution was implemented, consisting of an SCR catalyst and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), supplied by a specialized partner of Berger Maritiem. Independent measurements by an accredited testing company demonstrated that the NOx and PM emissions already complied with the limits of the upcoming EU Stage V regulation.
Additional Sustainability Enhancements
Alongside emission-related measures, Van der Waal invested in additional technical improvements contributing to a higher score in the Green Award points system. Drip trays were installed under the engines, a closed wastewater circuit was introduced, energy-efficient LED lighting was fitted, and a propeller shaft sealing was applied. These modifications improved not only the Rival’s environmental profile but also reduced operational risks related to leaks and contamination.
Efficient Conversion into a Bottom-Dump Vessel
A notably sustainable aspect was the Rival’s conversion into a bottom-dump vessel in 2015. Its cargo hold of 750 cubic meters could be unloaded rapidly and virtually without energy via bottom doors, significantly reducing the CO2 emissions per cubic meter dredged. Although this operational efficiency was not explicitly rewarded within the Green Award scoring system at that time, it emphasized the broad sustainability vision of the family-owned company.
An Impactful Practical Example
The Rival’s certification demonstrates that older vessels with a solid technical foundation can achieve successful certification through smart retrofitting and supplementary measures. For Van der Waal, this resulted in an improved environmental profile, a strengthened market position, and tangible financial advantages through harbor fee discounts. The vessel now serves as an inspiring example for other shipping companies and shipowners in inland shipping who wish to sustainably upgrade their existing fleet to meet current and future standards.