A recent call for transparency in sustainability efforts has been made by the CEO of expedition cruise line HX, highlighting the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices.
- The leader of HX is challenging the industry to set a higher benchmark for transparency in environmental sustainability.
- The company reported significant improvements in reducing emissions and waste despite increased operational activities.
- Efforts by the Hurtigruten Group, a sister company, show marked progress in emission reductions through innovative strategies.
- The call to action presses for collective industry responsibility in advocating for sustainable practices.
A call for greater transparency in the cruise sector’s sustainability efforts has been made by the chief executive of HX, who highlighted the need for industry-wide Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. The company has published its latest ESG report advocating for openness in communicating sustainability achievements and challenges, thus driving positive change.
The HX’s report showcases “remarkable achievements” in emission reductions, environmental conservation, and community engagement. The report aims to set an industry benchmark, encouraging peers to adopt a similar transparent approach. According to CEO Daniel Skjeldam, “Adventure travel serves as a catalyst for advocating on behalf of communities, environments, and wildlife impacted by climate change.”
Throughout the past year, HX has made “significant strides” in reducing emissions and waste. Specifically, they achieved an 18% decrease in emissions per available passenger night even with a 10% rise in distance sailed compared to 2022. Investments in hybrid technology, energy optimisation, and the use of shore power in locations such as Reykjavik are credited for these advancements.
Furthermore, waste reduction has been an area of focus, with a 20% decrease achieved by banning single-use plastics, revising menus, and providing refill stations for water bottles. In alignment with their strategy, Hurtigruten, HX’s sister company, reports a solid 9% reduction in direct emissions per passenger and a 46% reduction in NOx emissions since 2022. This progress is driven mainly by conversions to battery hybrid power.
Chief executive Hedda Felin reiterates their commitment to the guiding principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle, implementing strategies like smaller portion sizes and repurposing leftovers. Their recent initiative to convert food waste into fertiliser for menu vegetables exemplifies their efforts to close the sustainability loop.
Continued efforts and industry collaboration are vital for ensuring a sustainable future in cruise travel.
