In a significant leap toward sustainability and improved crew well-being, Synergy Marine Group has become one of the first to implement Agwa’s autonomous vegetable-growing technology aboard its vessels. This pilot project, launched aboard the EFFIE MAERSK tanker in September, marks a new era for onboard nutrition and sustainability in the maritime industry. The collaboration with Agwa, along with other maritime giants like Eastern Pacific Shipping, Seaspan Corp, Capital Shipping, and CoolCo, aims to bring fresh produce to sea, revolutionizing how ships provide food for their crews.
The core of this initiative lies in Agwa’s cutting-edge, AI-powered cultivation units. About the size of standard refrigerators or wine coolers, these self-contained units allow for the automated growth of vegetables and herbs without the need for specialized skills or significant time investments from the crew. The units use AI, cameras, and sensors to regulate key environmental factors such as ultraviolet light, water, fertilizer, and temperature, ensuring optimal conditions for plant growth. The result is fresh, nutrient-rich vegetables that are ready for harvest with minimal intervention.
Agwa’s Chief Commercial Officer, Eli Feiglin, described the innovation as a major leap in onboard sustainability. “The fully automated process allows crews to enjoy fresh greens and herbs without the need for special skills or substantial time commitment,” Feiglin said. “The crew members on Synergy’s vessels have been thrilled with the result, and we are excited to see the positive impact this innovation is having on their wellbeing.”
The EFFIE MAERSK is currently equipped with three Agwa units, which together yield up to four bowls of fresh salad per week, as well as herbs for seasoning. This not only enhances the nutritional offerings for the crew but also reduces the need for costly and waste-prone deliveries of fresh produce. Typically, such deliveries experience significant nutrient loss during long voyages, making the onboard cultivation system an important alternative for maintaining fresh food supplies.
Captain Rajesh Unni, founder and chairman of Synergy, emphasized the personal importance of this initiative, especially as a fellow seafarer. “High-speed internet access and shorter tours of duty are vital for seafarer satisfaction, but I’ve also seen firsthand how important fresh, nutritious food is to morale and well-being onboard,” said Unni. “Agwa’s technology allows us to serve fresher, healthier food onboard, directly enhancing crew welfare. This innovation also reduces food waste and delivers real-time benefits for the crew, aligning with our shared commitment to a greener, more sustainable maritime industry.”
The successful implementation of this technology aboard Synergy’s ships sets a powerful example for the maritime industry, demonstrating how innovation can improve both the sustainability of operations and the health of crew members. By reducing food waste, enhancing nutrition, and cutting down on logistical challenges associated with fresh produce deliveries, the system helps the industry take steps toward a greener future. Additionally, the technology’s self-sustaining, automated nature makes it an ideal solution for a sector that operates far from traditional agricultural infrastructure.
Synergy Marine Group’s adoption of Agwa’s autonomous vegetable-growing technology aboard the EFFIE MAERSK is a revolutionary step in promoting sustainability and improving crew welfare. By providing fresh, nutritious food with minimal environmental impact, this innovation is setting a new standard for onboard sustainability. As more ships integrate such technology, it holds the potential to redefine maritime operations, benefiting both the health of the crew and the planet.
