In today's topic, we will look at the promising role of rigid sails in the maritime industry as a sustainable alternative propulsion option. Despite being the primary mode of ship propulsion for nearly two millennia, sails rapidly faded with the introduction of steamships during the Industrial Revolution and the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869.

However, in response to growing worries about carbon emissions and environmental impact, the industry is turning its focus to "Green Shipping," "Green Logistics," and "Zero Emissions Shipping" efforts that aim to balance economic interests with ecological responsibility. Rigid sails have resurfaced as a promising alternative, with the potential to drastically cut reliance on fossil fuels and lower emissions.

Previous applications of rigid sails, such as those on the Shin Aitoku Maru and Usuki Pioneer, resulted in significant fuel consumption reductions of up to 30%, demonstrating their practicality and effectiveness.
Rigid sails are versatile, as they may be installed onto existing ships and utilized alongside alternative fuels such as methanol. While there are obstacles ahead, the potential benefits of rigid sails in terms of decreasing emissions, operating costs, and environmental effect make them an appealing alternative for the shipping industry's long-term evolution.