In this feature, we highlight the work of several NBAS members who are making meaningful contributions to sustainability and innovation across various industries. From advancements in maritime technology to sustainable beauty products, these companies are bringing fresh ideas to the forefront in Singapore.
Yinson GreenTech: Pioneering Maritime Sustainability with Battery Swapping Technology
Jan-Viggo Johansen, Managing Director, MarinEV, Yinson GreenTech speaking at SNIC 2024 on revolutionizing port operations with fully electric vessels and cutting-edge green technology
Yinson GreenTech recently hosted representatives from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI) and the Goal Zero Consortium members for a demonstration of its battery charging and swapping station designed for the Hydromover. Developed by the Goal Zero Consortium and co-funded by MPA, SMI, and the consortium, the Hydromover is Singapore’s first fully electric cargo vessel.
The battery charging and swapping station is a purpose-built solution that enables collaboration between the consortium, MPA, and research institutes to explore battery swapping technology as a viable option for maritime applications.
This innovative system consists of a mobile 20-ft container housing power management equipment and a charge cradle that securely docks the battery. Each battery can be fully charged in less than two hours, and the swapping mechanism allows for quick battery replacement, improving turnaround times for vessels. By charging batteries externally, especially during off-peak hours, this technology helps optimize power demand on the electrical grid and minimizes berthing congestion—making it an ideal solution for short-sea shipping in high-traffic maritime zones.
ECOsubsea: Scaling Up Sustainable Ship Cleaning in Singapore
Tor Østervold, CEO of ECOsubsea, speaking at SNIC 2024 on revolutionizing hull cleaning with the ‘Pink Panther’—a solution that works 10 times faster, reduces emissions, and enhances port efficiency.
ECOsubsea, a Norwegian leader in hull-cleaning technology, is expanding its operations in Singapore with its advanced robotic hull-cleaning solution, ‘Pink Panther.’ Supported by a NOK 69 million green growth loan from Innovation Norway, ECOsubsea is building three additional cleaning vessels to serve one of the world’s busiest ports.
By removing biofouling efficiently, ECOsubsea’s innovative technology reduces fuel consumption, lowers CO2 emissions, and prevents the spread of invasive marine species. The company aims to contribute to a reduction of two million tons of CO2 emissions in 2025 and ultimately capture 50% of the global hull-cleaning market, which could prevent up to 50 million tons of CO2 emissions. Their long-term vision includes deploying 250 robotic cleaning systems worldwide in key shipping hubs such as Singapore, Suez, Panama, and Gibraltar.
GARÐR: Norwegian Botanicals in Singapore
GARÐR’s Botanical Mask & Cleanser – a 2-in-1 innovation combining hydrating meadowfoam and purifying kaolin clay for radiant, refreshed skin.
GARÐR, a skincare brand inspired by Nordic traditions, is making its mark in Singapore with its range of plant-based and sustainable skincare products. The brand focuses on natural, additive-free formulations, emphasizing the benefits of Norwegian botanicals.
GARÐR showcased its Botanical Mask & Cleanser at the recently held Boutique Fairs Singapore (March 21–23) — a 2-in-1 product that blends the hydrating properties of meadowfoam with the purifying qualities of kaolin clay. Reflecting the brand’s commitment to clean beauty and sustainable sourcing, this product brings a touch of Norwegian wellness to Singapore’s beauty scene.
By introducing these Nordic-inspired solutions, GARÐR contributes to the growing presence of Norwegian brands in Singapore, combining sustainable practices with innovative skincare.
“It is so exciting to see how more and more people are enjoying and benefitting from Norwegian naturals, when using GARÐR products both here in Singapore and around the world.” — Jon Loken, Founder & Chief Formulator, GARÐR
We are excited to see inspiring examples of how NBAS members are bringing innovative and sustainable solutions to Singapore.
As Singapore and Norway celebrate 60 and 120 years of independence respectively this year, we look forward to highlighting even more impactful contributions from NBAS members as part of the #SG60xNorway120 celebrations.
We warmly invite our members to share their achievements and contributions to innovation, sustainability, and the strong partnership between Norway and Singapore. If your company has a story to tell, we’d love to feature you! Please reach out to our Digital Engagement Manager, Winnie Chew, at winnie.chew@nbas.org.sg.