Shipbuilders and contractors must look to new practices to improve their projects and processes
By
Mark Henderson |
The maritime industry has received some bad press for its sustainability record, quite rightly at some times and in some sectors. However, not enough credit is being afforded to the cruise sector which, perhaps because of its public facing focus, leads the way in introducing and experimenting more sustainable initiatives in all aspects of its operations.
It is easy to point fingers at the popular targets of emissions as Friends of the Earth did in its 2022 Report Card, which suggested that clean cruising was impossible. But is this really a reflection of the effort and drive behind the scenes to incorporate many new and innovative strategies that are not included in such ‘broad brush’ reports?
To me, every effort seems to be being made across the board to be more environmentally aware. There are many new sustainable products being used onboard, from carpets and fabrics to soaps, detergents and cleaning products, lighting systems, and other low energy usage items. In fact, there is hardly an area or material that cannot be responsibly sourced, but none of this great effort seems to be recognised or count towards offsetting some of the other larger, headline grabbing statistics.
Sustainability is a central priority in today’s shipping industry, and shipbuilders and contractors must look to new practices to include sustainable initiatives in their design, construction, maintenance and disposal projects and processes.
That’s where Magicman comes in. Having won Sustainable Product of the Year in 2020 at the Cruise Ship Interiors Awards, we continue to push the boat out and bring exceptional standards to our in-situ repairs. We can repair damage while the ship is in dry dock to ensure minimal waste is created and keep our ecological footprint low.
With a history stretching over 30 years, Magicman has largely created and led the way in on-site damage rectification across the construction, insurance and marine markets. Our research and development department seek out, test and introduce new sustainable initiatives for the benefit of all. Partnership is key to our success, working closely with clients and understanding their needs to provide solutions that fit in real and not ideological terms.
Regional and international sourcing means less stock being shipped long distances by road or air. We have also developed new technology to enable the restoration of clarity and preservation of glass, which reduces the amount of fresh water needed to wash it down. These are just a couple of the many ways in which Magicman has added further sustainable benefits to the range of core services it provides. Passengers want to make responsible choices, and they expect the same from cruise lines. At the same time, they still want a premium experience. With improved technology, there doesn’t have to be a choice between delivering the best passenger experience, saving money or the environment.
Operators can even go above and beyond by offering services like PressReader to give passengers a little piece of home through premium newspapers and magazines. Not to mention, it will save thousands on physical newspapers and magazines and shrink their ecological footprint.
Mark Henderson is chief executive at Magicman
This article was first published in the Autumn/Winter 2022 issue of Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed. Subscribe to Cruise & Ferry Review for FREE here to get the next issue delivered directly to your inbox or your door.