By Isle of Wight Observer
Wightlink has been awarded a Silver Star to recognise its efforts to promote sustainable travel on the Island, and is now aiming to achieve Gold status.
The accolade, awarded by Visit Isle of Wight under its Green Star scheme, shows Wightlink’s commitment to protect the environment, which already includes operating England’s only hybrid-energy ferry, Victoria of Wight.
Wightlink also provides charging points for electric vehicles and secure bike racks for cyclists and employs an Environmental Officer who is supporting the company to operate more sustainably, reducing emissions, increasing recycling rates and overseeing projects to protect and encourage wildlife. Wightlink uses local suppliers, where possible, which both benefits Island businesses and reduces food miles.
Nicola Craig, Wightlink’s Environmental Officer, said. “We take our commitment to the environment very seriously and are continually looking at ways to reduce our carbon footprint. We are delighted that Visit Isle of Wight has recognised our efforts to make it easier for people to travel more sustainably and will shortly be announcing further steps that demonstrate our commitment to this important area.”
Wightlink Chief Executive, Keith Greenfield, said: “We are pleased to win a Silver Star and are already going for Gold. We are continually reviewing our operations to make them as sustainable and environmentally friendly as possible and aim to achieve Gold status later this year.”
Nicola Rogers, Visitor Travel Project Manager at Visit Isle of Wight, said: “With numerous cycle tracks, footpaths and hidden gems, the Island is the perfect place to visit with or without a car. We are delighted that Wightlink is helping to make it easier for people to travel to the Island in a sustainable way and have recognised this work with a Silver Star.”
Pictured: Keith Greenfield and Nicola Craig with Wightlink’s EV charging point at its Portsmouth car ferry terminal
