by InTrieste
A new chapter in Trieste’s maritime environmental protection began this week as SIOT S.p.A., operator of the Marine Terminal of the Transalpine Pipeline, renewed its partnership with the local company OCEAN S.r.l. through 2029. The agreement extends a collaboration of more than a decade, focused on preventing and combating marine pollution in one of the Mediterranean’s most important oil terminals.
The renewed partnership includes the introduction of two advanced marine drones — the IADYS MOS+ (Mobile Oil Skimmer) and the Jellyfishbot Expert — marking the first use of such technology in Italy. Developed in collaboration with the French national pollution response center CEDRE, the drones are designed to collect hydrocarbons, oils, and both micro- and macro-plastic waste. Their compact size and maneuverability allow them to operate in areas that are difficult to reach with traditional equipment, such as between moored ships, beneath docks, and alongside piers.
“Constant innovation and the highest standards of safety and environmental protection are imperative for us,” said Alessandro Gorla, the newly appointed president of SIOT and general manager of the TAL Group. “We are proud that our partner on this fundamental issue is a Trieste-based company, which not only generates a local impact but also encourages our collaborators to be at the forefront and attract expertise to the city and the region.”
The MOS+ system is the first of its kind, combining a skimmer, a 120-liter storage platform, and a drone chassis. This configuration enables pollutants to be collected as close as possible to their source while minimizing exposure of human operators to hazardous conditions. The drones can be piloted remotely within a one-kilometer range or operate autonomously via satellite navigation systems including GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and Galileo. Each unit is equipped with Full HD surface cameras, LED lighting, depth sensors up to 20 meters, and obstacle-avoidance systems, making them versatile tools for environmental remediation.
Michela Cattaruzza, chief executive of OCEAN, emphasized the significance of the investment. “The integration of the IADYS MOS+ drones, the first in Italy, represents a qualitative leap in our operational capacity,” she said. “These systems allow us to intervene more effectively and rapidly in difficult-to-access areas while ensuring the safety of our personnel. Our investment in the port of Trieste reflects both our respect for the marine environment and our commitment to cutting-edge solutions for a cleaner future.”
SIOT, which handles a large share of crude oil bound for Central Europe, has long faced scrutiny over environmental risks associated with its operations. The adoption of advanced pollution-control technology reflects broader efforts by the port of Trieste to position itself as a leader in maritime sustainability while balancing its role as a major energy hub.
