Hydrogen-Powered Boat Marks New Era in Riverbank Recycling in Belém During COP30

Written by Rannyson Moura

Published on 17/11/2025 at 15:46

Updated on 17/11/2025 at 15:47

Projeto inovador de barco movido a hidrogênio estreia em Belém durante a COP30 e promete transformar a coleta seletiva ribeirinha, unindo energia limpa, tecnologia sustentável e impacto social positivo.

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The arrival of a completely hydrogen-powered boat in the Guajará Bay marks a decisive moment for the energy transition in the Amazon. Developed by Itaipu Binacional in partnership with Itaipu Parquetec, the “Boto H2” was presented during COP30 in Belém and quickly became a symbol of sustainable innovation in the region. In addition to sailing without emitting carbon, the silent engine of the vessel allows for clear hearing of the water sound — a stark contrast to traditional models.

This launch, therefore, demonstrates how hydrogen is gaining relevance in decarbonization policies, while simultaneously paving the way for new social and environmental solutions in the Amazon.

Clean Energy and Hydrogen: Structure Redefining Riverine Transport

According to André Pepitone, financial director of Itaipu Binacional, the boat is the result of 15 years of research, reinforcing its strategic nature. “We have reached this model that makes the intelligent transformation of hydrogen into electric energy with zero carbon emissions,” says the director.

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Three Energy Sources Complement Each Other in the System:

Hydrogen stored in cylinders that power the electric engine;
Solar energy, captured by panels on the roof;
Battery, activated in emergency situations.

According to Guilherme Nabeyama, the Boto H2 has a range of three hours on hydrogen and an additional three hours on solar energy, ensuring continuous operation even on long journeys.

Beyond technological innovation, the Boto H2 will serve a relevant social function. Donated to the city hall of Belém, in partnership with Fadesp and UFPA, the boat will enhance the recycling program in riverine communities, strengthening environmental education initiatives and the structuring of this essential service.

Rogério Meneghetti, superintendent of Renewable Energies at Itaipu, emphasizes that the new model replaces a diesel-powered vessel, elevating the sustainability and efficiency of the “Coleta Mais” program.

In the same vein, Newmar Wegner, manager of Itaipu Parquetec, highlights the economic impact observed in similar initiatives. He states that in the municipalities of Paraná where the program operates, “the recyclers have started earning three times more.”

This advancement, therefore, indicates that the use of hydrogen in riverine transport can generate benefits beyond the energy field, expanding economic opportunities for recyclers and local communities.

Community Perspective: Hydrogen Strengthening Riverine Pride

Among the workers who navigate the rivers daily, the emotional impact is also evident. Jonas da Silva, a recyclable materials collector, expresses the collective sentiment by stating: “We are very happy with this transport that will not pollute the river and will help us in our collection. It is a pride for all of us.”

Thus, the arrival of the Boto H2 not only symbolizes technological advancements but also reflects the transformative power of hydrogen in local realities — especially when innovation, sustainability, and social justice go hand in hand.

Hydrogen-Powered Boat Marks New Era in Riverbank Recycling in Belém During COP30

Clean Energy and Hydrogen: Structure Redefining Riverine Transport

Three Energy Sources Complement Each Other in the System:

Community Perspective: Hydrogen Strengthening Riverine Pride

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Hydrogen-Powered Boat Marks New Era in Riverbank Recycling in Belém During COP30

Innovative Hydrogen-Powered Boat Debuts in Belém During COP30 and Promises to Transform Riverine Recycling, Unifying Clean Energy, Sustainable Technology, and Positive Social Impact.

Clean Energy and Hydrogen: Structure Redefining Riverine Transport

Three Energy Sources Complement Each Other in the System:

Social Legacy: Hydrogen Helping to Boost Income and Sustainability

Community Perspective: Hydrogen Strengthening Riverine Pride

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Great Atlantic Sargassum Belt has ceased to be a climatic phenomenon and has become a biological system that feeds on itself, with 8,000 kilometers in length, 37 million tons of algae, and scientists confirm that it is now permanent.

China is building an artificial island in the middle of the sea, covering 20 km², to construct the largest offshore airport in the world, the Dalian Jinzhouwan. This $4.3 billion project is anchored on more than 3,000 pillars embedded in the rock beneath the ocean and is scheduled to open in 2035.

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