Wightlink pledges to go green

Wightlink has launched a Green Manifesto, pledging to make its operations as environmentally friendly as possible.

This follows the successful launch of the company’s new environmentally friendly hybrid energy flagship Victoria of Wight – the culmination of its £45million investment in the Portsmouth-Fishbourne route.

The first initiatives will include:

• The installation of chargers for electric cars starting at Fishbourne terminal in summer 2018 along with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to reduce traffic queues and emissions. EV charging at other ports is also planned. Wightlink’s stores van and some other company vehicles are being replaced with electrically or hybrid powered models to cut emissions.
• Reducing the use of plastics wherever possible linking with the Isle of Wight Council’s ‘plastic-free Island’ campaign. For example, disposable plastic cutlery is now being replaced by renewable wooden alternatives.
• Welcoming reusable cups at all Wightlink outlets with discounts of 25p off the usual price for customers who bring their own cups or mugs.

Wightlink already sends zero waste to landfill and is increasing recycling. More environmental initiatives are planned and will be announced later in the year.

“Like many Islanders, I was distressed to see the damaging effect of plastics and other pollution on marine life on Sir David Attenborough’s Blue Planet II series,” says Wightlink Chief Executive Keith Greenfield. “As a ferry company we have a special responsibility to the marine environment.  We have embarked on a journey, with Isle of Wight Council and other partners, to reduce our environmental footprint and want to do all we can to protect the beautiful Isle of Wight and Solent.”

Pictured, Wightlink’s Tara Broad serves coffee in a reusable cup to Chief Executive Keith Greenfield on board St Clare.

For more information, contact Karen Woods 07775 694266 [email protected].