Fleet-Based Hydroponic Produce Initiatives

Berge Bulk has reported harvesting over 1.2 metric tonnes of fresh produce aboard its fleet through an innovative hydroponics initiative. The Singapore-based dry bulk shipping company partnered with Aerospring Hydroponics to install 150 compact, soil-free growing systems across 75 vessels. This move has enabled Berge Bulk crews to cultivate vegetables and herbs like lettuce, tomatoes, and basil year-round.

The maritime sustainability program delivers multiple benefits beyond simple food production — it enhances crew wellbeing through therapeutic gardening activities, reduces plastic packaging waste by up to 12% per vessel, and cuts carbon emissions associated with traditional food supply chains. Crew members actively participate through friendly growing competitions and recipe sharing, as well.

By transforming unused shipboard space into productive gardens, Berge Bulk has developed a practical template for sustainable shipping that balances ecological responsibility with human well-being. The initiative forms part of the company's broader Blue Matters environmental strategy and YouMatter crew welfare program.

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