A new record for the number of applications to the AquaNor Innovation Award was set this year. The jury has reviewed all the applications and nominated three candidates for the Innovation Award. The winner will be chosen and annonced by the board of the Nor-Fishing Foundation in Trondheim this August during AquaNor.
This year’s jury included Kari Lisbeth Fjørtoft (Hofseth International AS), Bjørn Kåre Steinnes (Innovation Norway), Kjell Maroni (FHF), and Jan Henrik Sandberg (Norwegian Fishermen’s Association), with Oddbjørn Rygvold Rødsten serving as chair. After reviewing and assessing the applications, the jury has nominated the following three finalists (in random order):
UltraAQ AS – for their autonomous net washer that independently starts from the charging position, cleans the net and returns to the charging station. Once recharged, it automatically resumes cleaning from where it left off. This continuous cleaning solution results in minimal fouling, good water flow, minimal pollution and reduced stress for the fish during cleaning operations.
Greenfox Marine AS – for their automated technology for gender sorting and comprehensive health screening of salmon smolt, using ultrasound and artificial intelligence (AI). The technology is seamlessly integrated into existing vaccination lines and enables simultaneous sorting by both gender and various health parameters. This innovation reduces mortality, improves fish welfare, optimises growth and increases profitability.
Circmar AS – for their innovative and sustainable packaging solution intended to replace the current single-use packaging model for packing and transport. The solution includes collapsible and reusable fish crates, reusable pallets, sensors for tracking and monitoring crates and pallets, as well as a complete system for return, disinfection, and cleaning. Over time, this solution can replace the current model using styrofoam boxes and wooden pallets, offering a more sustainable concept where reusable packaging is delivered as a service.
While the final decision lies with the board of the Nor-Fishing Foundation, the jury has recommended Greenfox Marine as the winner of this year’s award. Last AquaNord’s Innovation Award was attirubuted to Sensor Globe from Marin X Inc, a compact multi-sensor device that facilitates live monitoring of fish welfare and mortality rates.
