Sustainable Innovation for Safety and Security in Inland Ferry Transport: Integrating Smart Technologies and Green Practices

DOI

10.2991/978-94-6239-731-6_15How to use a DOI?

Keywords

Inland waterways; sustainable innovation; ferry safety; transport security; digital technologies

Abstract

This study investigates sustainable innovation as a critical pathway for enhancing the safety and security of inland ferry transport systems, which play an essential role in providing mobility, supporting regional economies, and fostering social connectivity. Despite their importance, inland ferries often face persistent challenges, including accidents caused by overcrowding, poor vessel maintenance, extreme weather disruptions, and outdated technical systems. To address these issues, a qualitative-analytical review with case study references from Southeast Asia and Europe was conducted to explore the integration of sustainable innovations in ferry operations. The findings reveal four key dimensions of transformation: first, the application of technological innovations such as IoT-enabled sensors, AI-assisted surveillance, and advanced emergency response systems significantly improves risk detection, operational monitoring, and crisis management; second, renewable energy adoption through solar-powered ferries and hybrid propulsion engines not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also enhances vessel reliability and energy efficiency; third, the implementation of integrated security models—including CCTV monitoring, biometric identification, and automated distress alerts—strengthens passenger protection against both accidental hazards and criminal threats; and fourth, the reinforcement of safety regulations through digital reporting systems increases transparency, compliance, and alignment with international maritime standards. The study concludes that sustainable innovation should be considered not merely as a technological advancement but as a strategic necessity for resilient ferry operations. Future policies must prioritize financial incentives for green technology adoption, mandate smart safety devices, and promote international collaboration to harmonize safety practices. By combining environmental responsibility with advanced digital safety measures, inland ferry transport can evolve into a sustainable, efficient, and secure system that safeguards human lives while protecting the natural environment.

Copyright

© 2026 The Author(s)

Open Access

Open Access This chapter is licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/), which permits any noncommercial use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license and indicate if changes were made.

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TY  - CONF
AU  - Faisal Saransi
AU  - Eddy Sumartono
PY  - 2026
DA  - 2026/07/09
TI  - Sustainable Innovation for Safety and Security in Inland Ferry Transport: Integrating Smart Technologies and Green Practices
BT  - Proceedings of the International Conference of Inland Water and Ferries Transport Polytechnic of Palembang on Technology and Environment (IWPOSPA-TE 2025)
PB  - Atlantis Press
SP  - 135
EP  - 142
SN  - 2352-5401
UR  - https://doi.org/10.2991/978-94-6239-731-6_15
DO  - 10.2991/978-94-6239-731-6_15
ID  - Saransi2026
ER  -