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, in line with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of maritime transport. Through modernization of our fleet, the use of energy-efficient solutions, and the adoption of cleaner fuels, we are taking bold steps toward a more sustainable future. By continuously improving our operations and investing in green technologies, we aim to create a cleaner, more responsible shipping industry for generations to come.
Modernization of the Fleet
Our newest vessels are designed to be shore-power ready, giving them the ability to connect directly to land-based electricity while in port. Large onboard batteries add flexibility and enable greener operations at sea. We are equipping our ships with methanol-ready engines, ensuring they are prepared for the fuels of the future. At the same time, a focus on optimized efficiency means larger cargo capacity is combined with smaller, more efficient engines, significantly lowering CO₂ emissions per trailer.
Clean Energy Initiatives
We are already operating vessels on sustainable biofuel blends, cutting emissions today while preparing for tomorrow. At the same time, our existing ships are being upgraded with shore-power connections, allowing them to eliminate emissions while berthed in port.
Smarter Voyage Planning
Every journey is carefully planned to minimize its environmental footprint. Efficient routing ensures punctual departures and arrivals, while continuous monitoring allows us to adjust speeds and maintain the most fuel-efficient performance at sea.
Driving Innovation
Sustainability is a moving target, and we are determined to stay ahead. We actively track and evaluate the latest green technologies, adopting solutions that help us reach our carbon-reduction goals and move closer to our vision of net zero.
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 — such as at the Skansagarður Buffet onboard Norröna — and to 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.
Sustainability 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.
Our Journey Toward
a Greener Future
Every initiative we take brings us closer to a more sustainable way of operating at sea. From reducing fuel use and food waste to improving safety, protecting marine life, and introducing cleaner technologies, we are committed to making a positive impact. These stories highlight the concrete steps we are taking today to ensure a safer, cleaner, and greener tomorrow.
Reducing Diesel Consumption from Reefers
Every year, refrigerated cargo units consume large amounts of diesel. To change this, we have set a clear goal: reducing consumption by 10 percent, which equals around 100 liters less per trailer each year. By focusing on smarter operations and efficiency improvements, we are lowering fuel use and cutting emissions, one trailer at a time.
Cutting Food Waste
on Norröna
At the Norröna buffet, we are determined to serve food responsibly. Our target is to reduce waste to 125 grams per guest by the end of 2025. To achieve this, the team is cooking in smaller batches, designing versatile menus, and practicing portion control. Guest feedback is collected, and creative ideas for using leftovers are put into action. The result is a dining experience that is both sustainable and satisfying.
Building Safety
Through Training
Safety at sea starts with people who are prepared. That’s why our crews receive regular first aid training, ensuring they are ready to respond when it matters most. Beyond individual training, we also host an annual safety seminar for all officers across our fleet. These sessions create a culture of shared knowledge and responsibility, keeping both crew and passengers safe on every voyage.
Protecting Life Below Water
Our oceans are fragile, and ballast water plays a key role in protecting marine ecosystems. To comply with the Ballast Water Treatment Convention, all incoming water on our vessels is cleaned and treated with UV rays before it is discharged. This ensures we prevent the spread of harmful organisms and contribute to healthier oceans everywhere we sail.
Cleaner Vessels
With Electrolyzed Water
Traditional cleaning chemicals are being phased out across our vessels. Instead, we generate Electrolyzed Cleaned Anolyte (ECA) directly onboard. This safe and effective disinfectant is now used for deck cleaning across the fleet and cabin cleaning on Norröna. By replacing harsh chemicals, we are protecting both the environment and the wellbeing of passengers and crew.
ISO Certification
– Our Commitment to Quality, Safety & Environment
At Smyril Line, we are proud to be ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 certified across our fleet and offices. These internationally recognized standards reflect our commitment to quality management, environmental responsibility, and the health and safety of our employees and customers.
Our certifications ensure that we continuously improve our operations, reduce our environmental footprint, and maintain the highest standards of safety and service.
