Cruise & Ferry Review - Spring/Summer 2024

87 inevitable mechanical breakdowns in the fleet occur. These new ships will be deployed on the Nanaimo to Gabriola and Campbell River to Quadra routes in 2027. “The electrification of these two routes will reduce annual emissions by approximately 10,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. That’s about three per cent of our total emissions and will help get us closer to meeting our 2030 greenhouse gas reduction target.” BC Ferries is also in the middle of its New Major Vessel programme, the largest undertaking in its history to significantly improve the ferry experience in British Columbia. “We plan to build up to seven ships to replace six retiring vessels, adding more capacity to a growing province, improve reliability and reduce our environmental impact,” says Jimenez. “Vessel replacement at this scale is a multi-year project that requires careful planning and execution.” As a major operator along coastal British Columbia, BC Ferries recognises its responsibility to provide ferry services in the safest, most efficient and environmentally responsible and sustainable manner possible. “As we embrace our environmental stewardship of the lands and seas that are our workplaces, we do so as custodians for future generations,” says Jimenez. “We’re working with our suppliers to increase our use of low-carbon fuels. This is critical to meeting our aggressive 2030 emission reduction target. Last year, through our use of low-carbon fuels, we were able to generate over $25 million in carbon credit sales to help fund future green-related projects and initiatives. We operate in one of the most beautiful places on earth here in British Columbia and are committed to preserving it. “More than just fuel, we’ve worked hard to examine other strategies. In 2023, we diverted 950,000 kilograms of organic and recyclable waste material away from the landfill, equivalent to the weight of over 25 humpback whales.” “ We’ve updated our structure to strengthen our strategic planning capabilities”

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