The shipping industry has started adopting artificial intelligence directed cultivation devices to grow vegetables on board vessels to enhance sustainability and wellbeing of the crew. As one of the first adopters of Agwa’s autonomous vegetable-growing technology, Singapore-based ship manager Synergy Marine Group is enhancing onboard nutrition and championing sustainability, pioneering this initiative alongside other key industry players such as Eastern Pacific Shipping, Seaspan Corp, Capital Shipping, and CoolCo in bringing fresh produce to sea.
As part of a pilot project, Synergy managed Suezmax tanker ‘EFFIE MAERSK’ has been using Agwa’s cutting-edge AI-directed cultivation devices since September. These units, which are about the same size as standard refrigerators or wine coolers, allow the crew to enjoy freshly picked vegetables in the middle of the ocean.
The self-contained units use artificial intelligence, cameras and sensors to regulate environmental factors such as ultraviolet light, water, fertiliser and temperature. By maintaining optimal conditions for plant growth, the AI ensures that the vegetables grow efficiently and meet the needs of the crew. The system is designed to be entirely automated, so the crew need only to monitor the process and occasionally check on the plants’ progress.
From three Agwa units, the ‘EFFIE MAERSK’ has up to four bowls of fresh salad per week, along with herbs for seasoning. This not only provides nutritional benefits but also reduces waste and lessens the need for costly deliveries of fresh produce, which often suffers significant nutrient loss during long voyages.
“This initiative is close to my heart as a fellow seafarer,” said Captain Rajesh Unni, Synergy’s founder and Chairman. “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. Among today’s increasingly health-conscious mariners, we’re observing a noticeable shift toward healthier, plant-forward eating habits,” Captain Unni said.
“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,” Captain Unni added.
