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Over 1.2 metric tons of hydroponically grown produce harvested at sea

Berge Bulk has harvested over 1.2 metric tons of fresh vegetables at sea in 2024 through its fleetwide hydroponics program. Launched in 2019, the initiative is part of Berge Bulk's broader efforts to improve crew wellbeing and reduce food and packaging waste. It supports Berge Bulk's YouMatter wellbeing program and their Blue Matters environmental campaign.

In partnership with Aerospring Hydroponics, Berge Bulk installed 150 advanced hydroponic systems across 75 vessels. These systems enable crew members to grow vegetables and herbs such as lettuce, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, chili peppers, basil, and rosemary in a soil-free, nutrient-rich water environment.

© Berge Bulk

The program also contributes to the company's environmental sustainability ambitions. Michael Blanding, Head of Sustainability & Communications, explains, "We serve nearly 2 million meals annually, so growing our own produce means that we are using less plastic food packaging and avoiding emissions from the transportation of food. We are also seeing a significant decrease in food waste on board."

As of the end of 2024, Berge Bulk had achieved a 12% reduction in food waste per vessel (vs. 2021 baseline), ahead of the company's stated target to achieve a 10% reduction by the end of 2025.

"Watching plants grow from seed to harvest on board is incredibly fulfilling. It's refreshing, therapeutic, and brings our team together," shares Captain Noli Paraunda.

For more information:
Berge Bulk
bergebulk.com/

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