Maritime Robotics and Ovun partner for a more sustainable future
Maritime Robotics, a leading provider of Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs), has teamed up with Ovun, a Norwegian pioneer in sustainable manufacturing, to produce eco-friendly hulls for the fully electric Otter USV.
At Maritime Robotics, we’re always looking for ways to create innovative products that work well and are kinder to the environment. That’s why we’ve partnered with Ovun to use recycled medium-density polyethylene (MDPE) for the hull of our fully electric Otter USV (Uncrewed Surface Vehicle). This step helps us reduce our environmental footprint and create technology that’s better for the planet.
Eco-friendly hulls
The partnership focuses on using recycled medium-density polyethylene (MDPE) for the Otter’s hulls. These hulls are manufactured at Ovun’s facility in Åndalsnes, Norway, using recycled materials sourced from Nordic Plastic Recycling. The recycled material provided by NPR has been processed to meet the same high standards as virgin materials, ensuring durability, performance, and quality without compromise. By choosing recycled MDPE over virgin plastics, the companies have achieved a 75% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative not only reduces waste but also aligns with the principles of the circular economy, giving new life to plastics that would otherwise be discarded.
Kristine E. Mølmshaug, Quality and Sustainability Manager at Ovun, emphasized the significance of this approach, explaining that the recycled materials used in the hulls are durable and can be recycled repeatedly, ensuring sustainability throughout the product lifecycle. She also expressed pride in the collaboration, stating:
“We are honored to contribute to a project that integrates sustainable materials with zero-emission technology. Together, we are creating solutions with a significantly reduced environmental footprint.”
Kristine E. Mølmshaug, Quality and Sustainability Manager at Ovun and Daniel Viklund, one of the engineers involved in the project stand beside the recycled MDPE hull mould of the Otter USV.
High durability and recyclability
The Otter USV, known for its zero-emission technology and precise data acquisition capabilities, now features a hull that enhances its eco-friendly credentials. The recycled MDPE used in the hull maintains high durability and recyclability, ensuring long-term usability without compromising performance. Maritime Robotics’ engineers worked purposefully to combine sustainable materials with technical excellence, demonstrating that innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.
"Developing this product has been an exciting challenge, where we’ve worked purposefully to combine technical performance with sustainable materials and processes. By using recycled materials and optimizing production, we demonstrate that it’s possible to create solutions that benefit both our customers and the environment"
A Cradle-to-Gate Carbon Footprint Assessment further highlights the environmental benefits of using recycled MDPE. The results show significant reductions in both material emissions and total carbon footprint compared to hulls made from virgin materials. These findings reinforce the value of adopting sustainable practices in maritime innovation.
A shared vision for sustainability
This project shows what’s possible when companies work together. With Ovun’s expertise in sustainable materials, we’ve created a product that’s better for the environment without compromising on performance. The Otter USV is just one way Maritime Robotics is working to combine technology with environmental responsibility, and we’re excited to keep building solutions that benefit both our customers and the planet.
The recycled MDPE hull mould of the Otter USV at the Ovun facilities.
Ovun
Ovun, located in Åndalsnes, Norway, focuses on sustainable manufacturing solutions with expertise in utilizing recycled materials for industrial applications. The company collaborates with forward-thinking partners to develop products that align with the principles of the circular economy, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.
