Tokei Kaiun's Bulk Carrier Becomes The First Certified Hydroponic Vegetable Grower at Sea
Posted on Nov 18, 2024 at 10:11 PM
In a groundbreaking move to enhance the living and working conditions of seafarers, ClassNK has awarded its first-ever “ELW (HP)” designation to a vessel equipped for hydroponic vegetable cultivation. This honor was bestowed upon Tokei Kaiun Ltd.'s bulk carrier, ROYAL LAUREL, marking a significant advancement in maritime standards for crew welfare.
ClassNK's Commitment to Excellence
The “ELW (HP)” mark, which stands for “Excellent Living and Working Environment (Hydroponics),” is used by ClassNK to identify ships that do more to enhance living and working conditions on board than the Maritime Labour Convention’s (MLC, 2006) minimal requirements.
The marking aims to improve crew member satisfaction, lessen tiredness, and enhance the general safety and wellbeing of marine operations by going above and beyond legislative standards.
Moreover, HSN-KIKAI KOGYO CO., LTD. created a hydroponic vegetable planter designed specially to work well in shipboard inclination situations.
Crew members aboard ROYAL LAUREL may now produce their own fresh vegetables thanks to this invention, which enhances their daily diet and quality of life while at sea.
Enhancing Crew Safety and Well-Being
The “ELW (HP)” notation is attached to a ship's class certificate to demonstrate that it has been outfitted with facilities and technology that contribute to a better living and working environment. It is an initiative by ClassNK to encourage creative approaches that improve the onboard experience.
According to a ClassNK representative, the action is a component of the group's continuous endeavours to support the maritime sector's endeavours to improve the ships' working conditions.
Particularly, by supporting these enhancements, ClassNK believes it will help address long-standing concerns about crew safety and well-being.
Through its “Excellent Living and Working Environment” criteria, ClassNK intends to keep promoting and funding initiatives that enhance nautical conditions in the future.
This milestone raises important questions about the future of crew welfare in the maritime industry. Will other organizations follow ClassNK’s lead in promoting enhanced living standards at sea? How might this innovation shape recruitment and retention in a challenging field? As the industry navigates these uncharted waters, initiatives like “ELW (HP)” offer a glimpse into a more sustainable and humane future for seafarers.
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