54 “On one hand, it’s the hardware. We are always looking for more sustainable or natural material, including upcycled options. And it does not start or stop there. We are looking at the entire value chain, and imposing the same strict demands when it comes to sustainability on our partners and suppliers as we do on ourselves. But even more important, sustainability is an integral part of how we design and lay out our onboard areas – integrating a more sustainable guest experience into our design. It could be invisible measures that save energy through various ‘behind the scenes’ details. It could be touches such as removing all single-use plastic and adding water refill stations across the ships. And it could be designing entire areas dedicated to sustainability, such as the one-of-a-kind Hurtigruten Expeditions Science Centers – large edutainment areas where guests and the onboard Expedition Team interact and create a deeper understanding of our planet and the areas we explore.” – Thomas Westergaard, VP Hotel Operations, Hurtigruten Expeditions “We work hard to be as sustainable as possible across the company. Unfortunately, there are few factories in Singapore that produce sustainable interior products and services for maritime use and so we source from neighbouring countries. Whenever possible we seek to install products made from recycled materials and/or ensure that what we have installed on our vessels can be recycled at the end of life. We also specify high quality products and materials to ensure that they have a long life, therefore reducing waste.” – Max Tan, Managing Director, Majestic Fast Ferry “As an environmentally sensitive expedition company, Metropolitan Touring carefully plans the selection of key aspects before undergoing any renovation, refitting or overall maintenance. This includes, first, the selection of certified shipyards and maritime contractors, as well as their providers, who, when subcontracting other suppliers, will assure that the selection of parts, products and services are compliant with international standards. This level of compliance is carefully analysed by our maritime division before finalising any contracting. Henceforth, building materials, spare parts and all fabrics need to be IMO-compliant, which includes the MARPOL protocol for marine pollution, as well as fire prevention. Materials need to come from sustainable sources (lowemitting suppliers, non-polluting manufacturing processes, or mitigated impacts). These procedures will not only guarantee the safety of our guests onboard, but it will consolidate our commitment to being a sustainable company by fostering environmentally sensitive operations.” – Francisco Dousdebes, Head of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability, Metropolitan Touring COMMI TMENT
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