This was the outcome of a reverse pitch held in London, involving 10 UK scaleups vying to solve a ‘net zero building’ challenge posed by Shimizu. It was organized by the UK-APAC Tech Growth Program, which helps high-growth technology companies to explore and secure commercial opportunities in the APAC region.
At the start of the event, representatives from Shimizu set out their plans to collaborate with UK tech companies to advance the corporation’s ‘Vision of 2030’ sustainable business strategy. Each of the 10 companies – carefully selected from among the UK’s leading sustainability tech startups – then presented how its technology could support Shimizu’s vision, before participating in a Q&A 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 globally, both by SEaB Energy directly and through distribution and licensing agreements.
Sandra Sassow, SEaB Energy’s CEO, said, “We’re thrilled that Shimizu recognised the value creation opportunity of using sustainable energy and reducing CO2 emissions via our waste-to-energy technology.
"Our various sized platforms and the significant reduction in emissions they deliver will help Shimizu win new construction orders and further promote the use of electricity derived from renewable energy sources. This aligns with the corporation’s ‘Vision of 2030’ to realize a sustainable society."
Daisuke Kato, Head of the Acceleration Group at Shimizu’s NOVARE facility, said, “Our focus on sustainability is strong, especially in Southeast Asia where we have a long history in construction. We were therefore delighted explore the solutions on offer in the UK-APAC Tech Growth Program’s reverse pitch.
“The event was incredibly insightful and we were impressed by the advanced technologies and expertise showcased by the UK companies in the field of net-zero buildings. They highlighted that UK sustainability efforts are a few steps ahead of Japan, which is valuable knowledge as we strive to close the gap in APAC. It was inspiring to see so many UK tech companies aligned with our goals for a sustainable future in Asia Pacific.”
Jeremy Shaw, who leads UK-APAC Tech Growth Program, said, “Initiatives such as this are just some of the ways the Program highlights the latest UK technologies to potential customers and partners in Asia Pacific.
“We congratulate SEaB and the other participants and look forward to supporting them on the next stage of their journey into the APAC region.”
