Transformative Projects 2024 – Aeler
As part of their Master’s degree in Sustainable Management and Technology, students work on a sustainability challenge provided by a company to propose new perspectives or solutions that can have the potential to transform an industry or societal practice.
This research presents a comprehensive analysis of today’s sustainable maritime landscape and strategic roadmap for Aeler Technologies SA, a Swiss logistics tech startup redefining maritime shipping with sustainable and efficient container solutions. The research methodology combined desk-based studies and expert consultations to explore the evolving regulatory landscape, sustainability trends, and financial mechanisms in the maritime logistics industry, focusing on the European and Swiss markets.
While exploring the dynamic changes in the maritime industry, the research highlighted significant transformations driven by evolving regulations and emerging trends. Central to this shift are the EEXI and the CII, as well as the inclusion of shipping in the EU ETS, aligning the EU’s goal for climate neutrality by 2050 and the IMO’s targets for reducing CO2 emissions and carbon intensity. The Swiss Climate and Innovation Act, mandating net-zero emissions, exemplifies the growing global trend towards stringent climate regulations. The maritime industry’s focus on decarbonization is also spurred by developments in alternative fuels, sensors, and data analytics. These technological trends, alongside the expanding scope of climate litigation and increasing business and investor pressures, are reshaping corporate strategies toward cost-efficient and sustainable practices.
In the endeavor to develop carbon pricing business models, the project’s main recommendation to Aeler involves the implementation of a two-phase business strategy, beginning with the Attested Data Sharing model and progressing to the Carbon Credit Issuance model. The first involves generating revenue by sharing validated emissions data with customers, aiding them in their scope 3 reporting. Subsequently, Aeler could integrate the Carbon Credit Issuance model, which focuses on generating revenue through the sale of carbon credits derived from its emissions reduction initiatives. A critical aspect for Aeler to consider in both models is the market’s Willingness to Pay, crucial in determining the feasibility and success of each model.
The research recommends a diversified funding approach for Aeler that balances governmental funds, such as Horizon Europe and Swiss Accelerator, with private equity and venture capital investments, encompassing a total of 16 options with potential funding of 158M CHF. Key to this strategy is leveraging Euresearch’s free consultation services for application assistance, ensuring a robust financial runway, showcasing strong business traction, and potentially utilizing alternative financial tools like bridge loans or Convertible Loan Agreements (CLAs) for flexibility. Engaging lead investors to expand funding networks is also advised for maximizing Aeler’s funding opportunities.
In conclusion, the project develops innovative strategies that harness Aeler Technologies SA’s sustainability potential, enabling accelerated growth and amplified impact. This approach is not just timely but essential in guiding the maritime logistics industry toward a sustainable future, representing a significant step in balancing economic advancement with ecological responsibility.
Students: Jean-Pierre Constant, Sofia Estero, Noah Exquis
Company’s Supervisors: Emily Babot, David Baur
Academic Supervisor: Florian Hoos
