Pollution Prevention by Design for Wing-in-Ground Craft: A Technical Design Review Based on IMO Environmental Requirements

Abstract

The increasing development of Wing-in-Ground (WIG) craft as an energy-efficient maritime transportation system has highlighted the importance of integrating environmental protection into the early stages of vessel design. Although WIG craft offer advantages in fuel efficiency and reduced operational resistance through the ground effect phenomenon, their unique operational characteristics introduce environmental risks associated with fuel leakage, solid waste, sewage discharge, and atmospheric emissions. Existing WIG craft designs primarily emphasize aerodynamic and hydrodynamic performance, while environmental protection systems are often considered secondary, potentially compromising regulatory compliance and operational sustainability. This study aims to evaluate the implementation of the Pollution Prevention by Design (PPbD) concept in WIG craft through a Technical Design Review (TDR) based on the environmental requirements established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). A qualitative design assessment was conducted by reviewing four principal environmental protection systems: fuel and lubrication systems, solid waste management, sewage treatment, and air emission control. The evaluation was performed using compliance criteria derived from relevant IMO instruments, including MARPOL Annexes I, IV, V, and VI, together with the IMO Guidelines for Wing-in-Ground Craft. The review indicates that the baseline WIG craft design exhibits limited compliance with environmental protection requirements, particularly in fuel containment, sewage management, and emission mitigation. Several design improvements are proposed, including double-wall fuel tanks, leak detection systems, modular waste storage, compact sewage treatment units, and low-emission propulsion technologies. The findings demonstrate that integrating pollution prevention measures during the conceptual design stage significantly enhances environmental performance without compromising operational efficiency. This study contributes a structured technical review framework that supports environmentally sustainable WIG craft development while facilitating compliance with international maritime environmental regulations.