The pioneer of anaerobic digestion collaborates with Shimizu Corporation

It was the result of a reverse pitch in London, where 10 UK scaleups competed to solve Shimizu’s “net zero building” challenge, organised by the UK-APAC Tech Growth Programme, that helps fast-growing technology companies explore and secure trade opportunities in the Asia Pacific region.

At the beginning of the event, Shimizu representatives presented their plans to cooperate with British technology companies to support the corporation’s “Vision 2030” sustainable business strategy. Each of the 10 companies – handpicked from among the UK’s leading sustainability tech start-ups – then presented how their technology could support Shimizu’s vision, before taking part in a question and answer session.

Shimizu selected SEaB Energy as the winner because of its innovative, compact, easy-to-install anaerobic digestion systems housed in shipping containers. The systems are already being installed worldwide, both directly by SEaB Energy and through distribution and licensing agreements.

Sandra Sassow, CEO of SEaB Energy, said: “We are thrilled that Shimizu has recognized the value creation opportunities of using sustainable energy and reducing CO2 emissions with our waste-to-energy technology.

“Our multi-sized platforms and the significant emission reductions they deliver will help Shimizu win new construction orders and further promote the use of electricity from renewable sources. This is in line with the corporation’s 2030 vision to create a sustainable society.”

Daisuke Kato, Head of Acceleration Group at NOVARE’s Shimizu site, said: “Our focus on sustainability is strong, particularly in Southeast Asia where we have a long history in construction. We were therefore delighted to explore the solutions offered by the UK-APAC Tech Growth Program reverse pitch.

“The event was extremely informative and we were impressed by the advanced technologies and expertise demonstrated by UK companies in the field of net zero buildings. They highlighted that UK sustainability efforts are several steps ahead of Japan, which is valuable insight as we seek to close the gap in the Asia-Pacific region. It was inspiring to see so many UK tech companies sharing our goals for a sustainable future in the Asia-Pacific region.”

Jeremy Shaw, who leads the UK-APAC Tech Growth Program, said: “Initiatives like this are just some of the ways the program showcases the latest British technology to potential customers and partners across the Asia Pacific region. The fact that Shimizu has chosen to continue discussions not only with the winner but also with the three other participating companies is testament to the huge interest in British technology.”