Bureau Veritas (BV) has unveiled a new government-backed centre of excellence in Singapore that it hopes will develop a new model of innovation for shipping’s sustainability drive.
The innovation Centre of Alternative Renewables Energy (iCARE) aims to drive sustainable growth and new technology as part of the city state’s overall goal of increasing competitiveness in the maritime industry.
By creating an enabling environment for value innovation in the industry, BV said it hopes to generate a "positive impact and attract and develop talent in maritime careers".
The new centre will be headed up by Koh Shu Yong, previously head of commercial and innovation at BV Marine & Offshore in Singapore. He will be supported in the role by Ashish Anilan, sustainability leader in BV's South East Asia zone.
'New paradigms'
"Moving into a new era of innovation and technology, it is paramount to shape new paradigms for innovation in the industry and to develop more collaborative impact to explore innovative ideas on sustainable energy solutions for the future, meeting both Singapore’s and global regulatory requirements," Koh said.
David Barrow, BV vice president for marine and offshore told TradeWinds that as the class society’s business continues to strengthen in Singapore and across Asia, this investment will align BV with other stakeholders to ensure collaboration and quickening the journey to greenhouse gas emission and sustainability targets.
"We already have new sustainability and innovation projects underway, and we will be working closely with the recently opened Maritime Centre for Decarbonisation in Singapore," he said.
Barrow said the support of Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB) reflects the city states "proactive and leading edge" in future technology and decarbonisation.
Dawn Lim, head of commercial and professional services at EDB, said that with its focus on the development of new digital services and standards, the launch of iCARE was a "welcome boost to the transformation efforts of Singapore’s testing, inspection and certification industry".
"These innovation efforts will enhance the sophistication of Singapore’s maritime industry, and further strengthen our role as a maritime hub for the region," she said.
"In addition, we look forward to working with iCARE and other industry players in the areas of sustainability and alternative fuels, as Singapore transitions towards a low-carbon economy."
