In recent years, protection of marine environment has been gaining momentum. Yang Ming Marine Transport Corp. (Yang Ming) has also been attentive to the issue and dedicated efforts to safeguarding marine ecology. In 2016, Yang Ming began participating in the VSR (Vessel Speed Reduction) incentive program, “Protecting Blue Whales & Blue Skies”, led by The Blue Whales and Blue Skies partners and in 2020 and 2021 the Company was awarded the highest honor, the sapphire award and the gold award, respectively. Yang Ming is honored to have been recognized as the devoted protector of the ecosystem in the San Francisco Bay area and the Southern California region.
Running between May and November every year, the program focuses on cutting air pollution, protecting endangered blue whales, humpback whales and fin whales. During the program’s active period, endangered whale species are regularly fed. In the Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) regions, vessel speed is reduced to ten knots or less, enabling whales to swim away from ships without being struck. Speed reduction also leads to fewer emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and greenhouse gases. The award recognizes participating companies whose fleet traveling through the Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) regions at reduced speed of ten knots or less. Yang Ming was awarded not just for more than 75% of its fleet’s traveled distance at ten knots or less, but also for its continued effort to achieve better performance year after year. In short, the award is a recognition for Yang Ming’s effort in environmental protection and it enhances the Company’s image as the dedicated protector of marine ecology. Looking forward, Yang Ming will continue to fulfill its corporate social responsibility in the protection of the environment and in facilitating sustainable development to mitigate the impact of climate change.
