Sustainability

Our Commitment

As a key link between the remote North Atlantic and the rest of the world, we support local communities while recognizing our responsibility to reduce our environmental impact. Maritime transport carries 90% of global trade and, while efficient, accounts for around 3% of annual CO₂ emissions.

We are committed to doing more than just minimizing our footprint. In line with the International Maritime Organization’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, we are taking bold steps to innovate and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Achieving this requires continuous improvements in operations and technology, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Our Goals

Vision
To be the leading choice for sustainable maritime transport in the North Atlantic, with a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 for a greener future.

Mission
Our mission is to provide reliable, safe, and environmentally responsible maritime transport, connecting North Atlantic communities with the rest of the world. We are committed to strengthening connections between these regions, improving access to essential goods and services, and delivering unforgettable travel experiences

Net Zero by 2050

We are committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, aligning with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of maritime transport. Through fleet modernization, energy-efficient solutions, and the adoption of cleaner fuels, we are taking bold steps toward a more sustainable future. By continuously improving operations and investing in green technologies, we are working to ensure a cleaner, more responsible shipping industry for generations to come.

Leading Principles

Our Commitment to Health, Safety, Environment & Quality.
At Smyril Line, we uphold the highest HSEQ standards across all operations, guided by seven core principles:

Regulatory
Compliance

We strictly follow all health, safety, environmental, and quality regulations to ensure responsible operations.

Leadership Commitment

Our senior management actively supports HSEQ performance, providing the resources needed for continuous improvement.

Continuous Improvement

We set measurable goals, monitor progress, and implement corrective actions to enhance our HSEQ standards.

Risk Management

We identify and mitigate risks to ensure a safer, more sustainable operation.

Employee
Participation

Our employees play a key role in maintaining safety and sustainability, supported through training and active participation.

Stakeholder Engagement

We engage with stakeholders to address concerns and drive improvements in health, safety, environment, and quality.

Emergency Preparedness & Response

The company will establish procedures to respond to emergencies and incidents.

HESQ – Objectives

Our HESQ objectives encompass Health, Environment, Safety, and Quality, with a commitment to achieving zero lost time incidents and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.

We aim to enhance operational efficiency through a 10% reduction in trailer damage and diesel consumption, as well as improvements in invoicing quality and employee satisfaction. Furthermore, we seek to minimize delays, reduce Port State Control findings, decrease food waste, and lower the number of overdue maintenance jobs.

In line with our sustainability efforts, we are dedicated to replacing harmful chemicals and strengthening waste recycling initiatives to promote responsible and environmentally conscious operations.

Reducing Environmental 
Impact

We are dedicated to reducing our environmental impact through innovative technologies and responsible practices. Our new vessels feature battery packs, methanol-ready engines, shore power connections, optimized propeller design, and an integrated shaft system to minimize fuel consumption. Regular hull cleaning further enhances efficiency and reduces emissions.

On land, our Green Key-certified hotels and new headquarters will support sustainability, using seawater heating for energy efficiency. At sea, our vessels are equipped with scrubbers and ballast water treatment systems, while efforts to reduce food waste on the Norröna buffet and optimize route planning help lower emissions and ensure on-time departures.

Through continuous improvements, we strive for a greener and more sustainable future.

Responsibility
and Sustainability

We take our corporate responsibility seriously, working to create lasting value for both local communities and the environment in the North Atlantic. Our dedication to sustainability is reflected in five key objectives, guiding our efforts toward a more responsible and environmentally conscious future.

Sustainable Transport

We are committed to reducing the environmental impact of our operations by implementing green energy solutions, using cleaner energy sources, and continuously developing initiatives to lower CO₂ emissions.

Supporting Local Communities

As a key player in the North Atlantic, we actively support initiatives and activities that strengthen local communities. This includes cultural and sporting events that contribute to both the economy and well-being of the regions we connect.

Trust and Quality

By providing safe, reliable, and high-quality service, we build trust with our customers and partners, contributing to both social and economic well-being.

Creating Jobs

Through our operations in the Faroe Islands, Iceland, and Europe, we have contributed to job creation both locally and internationally, strengthening the economies of the regions where we operate.

Developing Tourism in the North Atlantic

By connecting the Faroe Islands, Iceland, and Europe through maritime transport, we support the growth of tourism and increase awareness of these unique destinations.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

We have identified five key UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that are most relevant to our operations and where we can make the greatest impact:

  • Good Health and Well-being
  • Decent Work and Economic Growth
  • Responsible Consumption and Production
  • Climate Action
  • Life Below Water

In addition, we continue to support and integrate other sustainability goals into our efforts.

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