By Mark Edward Nero
On May 29, Port Metro Vancouver honored 13 shipping lines
and three cruise lines with a Blue Circle Award for 2013. The award recognizes
and rewards vessel operators for actions that reduce air emissions.
As part of Port Metro Vancouver’s EcoAction Program,
shipping lines can benefit from a discount of up to 47 percent on harbor dues
by choosing a variety of eligible fuels, technology options and environmental
management practices. Vessels that qualify are eligible to receive the Blue
Circle Award, a recognition reserved for the highest level of participation in
the EcoAction Program.
“We are committed to balancing growing demand for trade with
the need to protect our environment and maintain the quality of life of our
neighbors,” Port Metro Vancouver President and CEO Robin Silvester said. “The
Blue Circle Awards allow us to honor shipping lines for their environmental
stewardship and commitment to cleaner air.”
The shipping lines that were recipients of 2013 Port Metro
Vancouver Blue Circle Awards are:
APL; COSCO Canada; CMA CGM; Eukor Car Carriers; Grieg Star
Shipping; Hapag-Lloyd AG; Hyundai Merchant Marine; “K” Line; Maersk Line;
Mitsui OSK. Lines; Mediterranean Shipping Co.; Orient Overseas Container Line;
and Westwood Shipping Lines.
The three cruise lines receiving the award were: Disney
Cruise Line; Holland America Line; and Princess Cruises.
