Report: Synergy Marine Group is using AI to grow fresh food on its ships.
Synergy Marine Group, a leading global ship management company, has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to cultivate fresh vegetables onboard its vessels using advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology. This innovative approach aims to enhance the nutritional well-being of seafarers, reduce food waste, and promote a more sustainable maritime industry.
The pilot project, launched in September 2024, involves the deployment of AI-directed cultivation devices developed by Agwa, an Israeli agritech company. These compact, self-contained units, similar in size to standard refrigerators, utilize AI algorithms to precisely control environmental factors such as light, temperature, humidity, and nutrient levels, ensuring optimal plant growth.
By harnessing the power of AI, these devices enable the cultivation of a variety of fresh vegetables, including lettuce, herbs, and microgreens, even in the challenging conditions of a maritime environment. The AI system continuously monitors plant growth and adjusts parameters in real-time to maximize yield and quality.
The benefits of this initiative are far-reaching. For seafarers, it provides access to fresh, nutritious produce, improving their overall health and well-being. The availability of fresh vegetables can also help alleviate the monotony of shipboard meals, boosting morale and reducing the reliance on processed and preserved foods.
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From a sustainability perspective, this technology offers several advantages. By reducing the need to transport fresh produce long distances, it minimizes the associated carbon footprint. Additionally, it helps reduce food waste, as vegetables can be harvested as needed, eliminating the risk of spoilage.
The successful implementation of this pilot project has the potential to revolutionize the way food is sourced and consumed onboard ships. Synergy Marine Group plans to expand the use of AI-powered cultivation devices across its fleet, further enhancing the quality of life for seafarers and contributing to a more sustainable maritime industry.
In conclusion, Synergy Marine Group’s pioneering initiative demonstrates the power of AI to transform traditional practices and address pressing challenges in the maritime sector. By embracing innovative technologies like AI-powered agriculture, the shipping industry can become more sustainable, efficient, and crew-friendly.
