This week we will elaborate more on a concept we presented in our first blog post. In that post we mentioned collaboration, using big data and shared value as concepts of sustainable development. In this post you will find out why in today's world, to be sustainable, means to collaborate.
UNICEF defines collaboration as a key life skill and action that results in common good or in achieving mutual interests. Sometimes less is more, but in the case of efficient teams significant ideas can be born among people who share a common vision. Often these ideas create innovative solutions that contribute to society and the environment.
To advance their development, companies or educational institutions sometimes have to broaden their knowledge pool. This process is achieved through collaboration or outsourcing. Outsourcing usually presents engagement of a third party, who contractually offers its services and/ or products. Through collaboration, merging resources and contacts, companies and/or educational institutions can offer a service or product with increased value for the society, but also a more sustainable character. A few examples from the marine industry follow.
EXAMPLES
A sustainable example from the marine industry is the project “Ma-Hy-Hy”. Proton Motor Fuel Cell is a German company specialized in hydrogen fuel cells. It collaborates with Torqeedo, a manufacturer of electric and hybrid marine propulsion in the range from 0,5 to 100 kW. Companies collaborate on a high-voltage hybrid propulsion system which unites batteries and hydrogen fuel cells. The project is innovative and presents a zero emission solution for sea and inland water boating. Its development is planned from 2021 to 2024. Undoubtedly, behind this project lays lots of work and research, but also excitement in creating a sustainable solution.
A networking example is the event Business Cooperation on Blue Growth in Europe. The event was held in Athens on the 11th and 12th of May this year. The event was hybrid and we took part in the online variant. It was organized by Innovation Norway, hosting entrepreneurs, scientists and public bodies from 12 European countries.
The event in Athens hosted different presentations, from green shipping, blue bioeconomy and smart ports. Twenty nine members from Croatia took part in the online event. We engaged in meetings with European entrepreneurs and researchers, because we are always eager to find out new ideas, inspiration, contacts and potential collaborations!
CONCLUSION
Lastly, we are aware of the importance of collaboration, so we are inviting our readers, individuals, entrepreneurs, academics and enthusiasts to contact us with any collaboration ideas!