4 0 Quark Expeditions, for example, is developing a sustainable sourcing policy that intends to shift its spending towards products that are “more environmentally sound, and socially and ethically beneficial”. Likewise, Attica Group has also recognised that “raw materials are not inexhaustible, but finite”, and so it has prioritised the efficient use of natural resources by implementing programmes to monitor how materials are used, reused, recycled and disposed. MSC Cruises is taking a robust approach across all areas of procurement, telling CFI that “managing environmental, social and ethical issues in the supply chain is critical”. Scandlines also considers procurement as “much more than cost”, noting that sustainability, safety, quality and innovation are key selection criteria for every ferry tender it runs. Hong Kong Ferry is similarly thorough during the supplier engagement and tender process. “Our evaluation criteria include product and service quality, safety performance, operational needs and price to ensure business partners share our dedication to environmentally and socially responsible practices,” says a spokesperson for the company. Several organisations aim to form partnerships with others who can help them to improve procurement processes. NYC Ferry, for instance, is actively seeking “opportunities to innovate and partner with stakeholders that support its commitment to the environment”, as well as collaborations with vendors that have green procurement and packaging policies themselves. Norwegian Cruise Line has also committed to “working with diverse partners across the supply chain to source safe, high quality, ethically responsible and sustainable products for guests”. UK-based ferry operator Condor Ferries, which already purchases products and services that “do the least possible damage to the environment” is actively encouraging others to do the same in the hope that it will drive industry-wide improvements. Sustainable products There are countless examples of the industry’s appetite for purchasing more sustainable products and systems. For example, Wasaline proactively seeks out environmentally friendly materials for its Baltic Sea ferries, while New York City-based cruise provider Hornblower has chosen carpets containing Everest Fibers made from post-consumer recycled material that is also recyclable. In addition, TUI Cruises prioritises the use of sustainable materials, like wood from responsibly managed forests, for newbuilds. Some operators are ensuring that the items used by passengers are ecofriendly where possible. Elixir Boutique Cruises only uses eco-friendly hotel amenities that come in green packaging and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has ensured that all the bed linen and towelling FEATURE
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