Port of Seattle Recognizes Ten Sustainability Leaders

By Mark Edward Nero

Winners of the seventh annual Port of Seattle Green Gateway Environmental Excellence Awards, were named by the port April 25.

The awards, which were established in 2010, recognize cruise lines, business partners, the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and airlines that demonstrate leadership in sustainability throughout the Puget Sound region.

This year’s maritime award winners are:

• Carnival Cruise Line, which developed recycling incentive program for all vessels in the fleet; participated in initiatives such as Coastal Cleanup Day & World Oceans Day; and hosted a first-ever shoreside Environmental/Sustainability Fair, demonstrating a commitment to environmental education and outreach.

• Celebrity Cruise Lines, which installed solar panels, integrated into the ship’s energy grid; and developed an Environmental Ship Index certification.

• Holland America Line, which installed solar panels, integrated into the ship's energy grid; and developed an Environmental Ship Index certification.

• Norwegian Cruise Line, which installed solar panels, integrated into the ship’s energy grid; and developed an Environmental Ship Index certification, and;

• Princess Cruises, which plugged in to shore power to reduce carbon emissions while at dock; installed LED lighting to save energy; and introduced a unique shredder that significantly reduces the volume of waste produced.

“The Port of Seattle is proud to recognize these businesses that have gone above and beyond in protecting the Earth,” Port of Seattle Commission President Tom Albro said. “Whether it’s the aircraft at Sea-Tac or the vessels calling our harbor, we aim to be the cleanest and greenest port in the nation.”