By
Alex Smith |
Avalon Waterways has reported on its sustainability efforts across the past two years, as well as outlining its planned initiatives up to 2023.
The river cruise line has eliminated single-use plastics onboard its ships and at operations offices worldwide and has partnered with environmental organisation The Ocean Cleanup to support the deployment 1,000 interceptors in rivers to eliminate the flow of plastic entering the world’s oceans. The company has also reduced paper waste by 80 per cent through greater use of digital communications. Other initiatives include investments in locally produced food, the installation of LED lighting throughout ships and a commitment to using shore power whenever it is available.
“In the last decade, we have made great strides in ensuring sustainable, responsible river cruising for our guests and the planet,” said Giles Hawke, CEO of Avalon Waterways UK. “Avalon has invested in a state-of-the-art fleet of Suite Ships and top-of-the-line technology to limit energy, consumption and emissions; plus waste reduction and recycling programmes to reduce our environmental footprint, save water and foster a sustainability culture among crew and guests worldwide.”
Between 2021 and 2023, Avalon plans to reduce paper waste further to less than one per cent. It will pilot a program to use biofuel to power its vessels, and make use of electric bow thrusters to further reduce emissions. The cruise line will also partner with more destinations to generate sustainable electricity for use when docked.
Avalon also plans to launch the first fully electric river cruise vessel by 2027.
“The green blueprint Avalon Waterways has created for the next two years promises lower emissions, more local food production and sustainable shore excursions,” said Hawke. “ Avalon is dedicated to protecting the planet with unprecedented, environmentally friendly holidays for guests now and in the future.”