By Mark Edward Nero
Port Metro Vancouver, Canada’s largest seaport, on May 7 said it was honoring 12 shipping and four cruise lines with a Blue Circle Award for 2014.The Blue Circle Awards recognize marine carriers with the highest rate of participation in the port’s EcoAction Program.
EcoAction sets goals for air emissions reductions for ocean-going vessels that enter the port, and rewards those that excel in environmental stewardship. As part of the program, vessels are entitled to a discount of up to 47 percent on harbor dues by choosing a variety of eligible fuels, technology options and environmental management practices.
The 2014 Port Metro Vancouver Blue Circle Award recipients are: Celebrity Cruises; CMA CGM; Disney Cruise Line; Eukor Car Carriers Inc.; Grieg Star Shipping Canada; Hanjin Shipping; Hapag-Lloyd Canada; Holland America Line; Hyundai Merchant Marine; “K” Line; Maersk Line; Mitsui O.S.K Lines; Mediterranean Shipping Co.; Princess Cruises; Westwood Shipping Lines; and Yang Ming Shipping Canada.
“The Blue Circle Awards allow us to recognize and honor marine carriers that are committed to reducing air emissions by going above and beyond regulatory requirements,” Port Metro Vancouver President and CEO Robin Silvester said in a statement announcing the awards. “I congratulate the 2014 award recipients.”
