Project Summary

Road transportation is energy inefficient & contributes to high CO2 emissions. Initiative like NAIADES III highlight the urgent need to shift towards waterways for reducing CO2 emissions. WISTAR addresses this priority by harnessing the potential of inland waterways for small rural businesses in Normandy (FR), the Ruhr area (DE), and the Walloon Region (BE).

As a transnational project, WISTAR emphasizes collaboration among North-West Europe countries. It leverages the economic significance of the participating areas, including their thriving agricultural and fisheries sectors. By promoting energy-efficient and sustainable inland waterway transportation, WISTAR aims to enhance the economic potential, growth, and development of these regions.

Innovative approaches and technologies, such as shallow waterway-capable e-ships powered by renewable energy sources, and simplified transshipment points, optimize supply chain efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Digitalization improves operations for small rural businesses, while integrating e-commerce and digital platforms facilitates connections between rural enterprises and urban markets, maximizing the utilization of return trips.

The outputs of WISTAR offer insights into the feasibility of using inland waterways for small rural businesses and provide valuable guidance for implementing sustainable changes. The project sets an example for other regions, showcasing the benefits of transnational cooperation and sustainable inland waterway transportation.​