Lighthouse is Sweden’s collaboration platform for maritime research and innovation.
Here, academia, research institutes, government agencies, and industry work together to ensure efficient, long-term sustainable, safe, and competitive shipping.
Our work is divided into three main tasks:
Lighthouse fosters collaboration between universities, industry, and public authorities.
This is achieved through seminars, matchmaking, pre-study collaborations, and focus groups.
We also offer and develop networks for discussions on ongoing research, development, and innovation to identify needs and create strategic focus.
Lighthouse has identified challenges and research, development, and innovation needs within ten prioritized areas.
These are shared with research funders and other relevant stakeholders to help ensure that the maritime sector is included in more general or cross-sectoral R&D programs, as well as to contribute to the development of dedicated maritime R&D initiatives.
We also take an active role in shaping Sweden’s contributions to the EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation.
Since March 2019, Lighthouse has also been managing the Swedish Transport Administration’s ten-year industry program Sustainable Shipping.
In addition, we run a trainee programme for Naval Architects.
Lighthouse raises awareness of and generates interest in Swedish maritime research, development, and innovation through its website, newsletters, social media, press releases, research popularization, and more.
Lighthouse also disseminates results from both Swedish and international research and innovation within the maritime sector.
Why Are We Doing This?
Today, 90% of all goods are transported by sea. At the same time, global freight volumes are expected to double by 2050 – the same year that shipping is expected to have transitioned to fossil-free operations. This presents a major challenge not just for the shipping industry, but for the entire transport sector. How can we meet the sharply increasing demand for transport while developing a long-term sustainable transport system? To make this possible at all, every part of the system must be renewed at a faster pace than before – this applies both to shipping as a mode of transport and its role within the entire transport system.
A crucial factor for ensuring that the maritime sector remains both competitive and sustainable, in the short and long term, is skills supply and competence development. Research and education are closely linked, and to offer cutting-edge education, world-class research is essential. Research, innovation, and skills development also require a solid educational foundation – which is why education is central to a sustainable maritime sector.
Shipping and Marine Technology – a Swedish Area of Strength
Swedish shipping companies and marine technology firms are at the forefront when it comes to development and adaptation to international challenges. Swedish universities and research institutes focused on maritime issues are also among the global leaders in research and innovation. The opportunities are substantial for innovative companies, shipowners, marine technology companies, academia, and public actors on a growing global market.
Through Lighthouse, we can work together across a wide range of areas – from business conditions and business models to new innovations in logistics, navigation, energy efficiency, and alternative fuels. Close collaboration improves the chances of success in international programs such as the EU’s Framework Programme for Research and Innovation – Horizon Europe.
By focusing on becoming an even stronger knowledge-based industry, Swedish shipping can solidify its position and take a leading role in shaping the future of maritime transport.
