Sustainable Shipping Through Wind Power: A Summary of the 'Windshipped' Film

The film "Windshipped" tells the story of Apollonia, a 64-foot, two-masted steel-hulled schooner that sails along the Hudson River delivering local products to New York City. The film's central idea is to provide a carbon-neutral alternative to commercial truck shipping in this densely populated region. Since 2020, Apollonia has transported more than 200,000 pounds of cargo using wind, tidal, and current power—with only minimal diesel use for harbor maneuvers. On land, human-powered cargo bicycles complete the delivery network.

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Captain Sam Merrett emphasizes the importance of considering the effects of our shipping decisions and exploring alternatives, rather than simply moving goods from point A to point B without regard for the side effects of fast and cheap transportation. In 1832, an estimated 1,200 sloops were operating on the Hudson River at any given time, and steam power was used in cargo shipping into the 20th century. However, Merrett believes that with growing demand for sustainable shipping and help from advanced tracking systems, the sailing cargo industry can make a comeback.

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John Bowermaster's film functions as a love letter advocating for a slow and thoughtful exploration of the Hudson River landscape. The film also argues that shipping goods by wind and water is an effective method for situations where there is no rush. Merrett pushes back against today's popular culture of fast delivery, finding merit in promises of greener and more socially responsible shipping.

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Apollonia has carried malt barley, coffee beans, lumber, flour, beer, cheese, squash, clothing, apple cider, furniture, and much more. The company also supplies materials for gala events, makes deliveries to food banks and warehouses, and carries wholesale and individual shipments, offering "Boat Boxes" filled with local products.

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Documentary Link: https://www.amazon.com/WindShipped-Oceans-8-Films/dp/B0B8TCS1MV

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Key Takeaways:

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1. Apollonia offers an alternative solution to carbon-neutral shipping.

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2. More than 200,000 pounds of cargo has been transported using wind, tidal, and current power.

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3. Sailing cargo shipping was widespread on the Hudson River in the 19th century.

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4. The film calls for sustainable shipping practices.

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5. "Windshipped" is available for rental on Amazon Prime.

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News Link: https://www.supplychainbrain.com/articles/38805-windshipped-offers-a-vision-of-alternative-to-commercial-trucking-in-hudson-valley