Cruise & Ferry Review - Spring/Summer 2021

1 5 5 which has helped it to implement actions in economic, social and environmental spheres that have improved its environment. In recent years, the quality of its waters has increased considerably, terrestrial and marine ecosystems have been recovered, and the port has been brought closer to the city with the construction of important infrastructures. The port seeks to develop a sustainable economic model with the involvement of all the value elements of the port chain. Green partnerships The Port of San Diego in California released the second edition of its Blue Economy Incubator Highlights Report in January 2021. The report outlines the performance of the port’s incubator portfolio based on measurable environmental, social, and financial benefits delivered by the portfolio companies, from pilot project to commercial success. To date, the Board of Port Commissioners has approved nine agreements with early-stage companies to launch innovative pilot projects. “We have proven that businesses can sustainably use ocean resources to grow our economy, to create jobs, and improve livelihoods, while also protecting and improving the health of our ocean and its ecosystems,” says Rafael Castellanos, from the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. In England, the Port of Dover has been working in partnership with expedition cruise operator Hurtigruten on sustainability since 2019. “The port is fully supportive of all cruise lines that put environmental sustainability at the heart of their business and operations and we look forward to welcoming Hurtigruten to Dover soon for their first UK departure,” says a port spokesperson. In September 2020, the port announced that it will work with Norwegian clean technology company ECOsubsea to roll out a sustainable and environmentally friendly cleaning programme for hulls of visiting cruise ships. The Port of Dover Cruise SEA Award has also been running successfully since 2017 to encourage cruise lines to maximise their recycling. The Cape Town Cruise Terminal at the V&A Waterfront on South Africa’s oldest working harbour boasts a number of design and operational features that promote sustainability. These include a ban on single-use plastics and a zero- waste approach at the food hub inside the terminal. Within easy walking distance from the Cape Town central business district, the terminal offers close access to public transport and cycle- friendly facilities. The installation of energy-efficient lighting and appliances allows for greater energy conservation. The precinct has been awarded a total of 12 awards from the Green Building Council of South Africa and has retained Platinum Status through the Heritage Environmental Rating Programme. CFR Photo: CCI Nice Côte d’Azur An MSC cruise ship berthed at Port Longyearbyen in Svalbard Ponant sailing ship in Port of Cannes WWW.FLAMPORT.COM