Serco NorthLink Ferries launches Responsible Visitor Charter to safeguard the Northern Isles
Friday 12th August 2022
Serco NorthLink Ferries has today launched its Responsible Visitor Charter to help protect the natural beauty of the Northern Isles and ensure they can be enjoyed for many years to come, by locals and visitors alike.
The charter – created as part of NorthLink’s commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism – invites visitors to follow a series of simple steps when exploring the islands to help safeguard the local area.
It asks guests to play their part supporting local businesses, being mindful of nature and wildlife, respecting the islands’ culture and heritage and being environmentally conscious.
Stuart Garrett, Serco NorthLink Ferries’ Managing Director, said: “We’re proud to transport visitors from the Scottish mainland to the Northern Isles – it’s great that we can help guests experience the unique and beautiful islands of Shetland and Orkney.
“However, we recognise that it’s important for visitors to care for our iconic landscapes, businesses, wildlife, and culture when visiting. We hope that our new Responsible Visitor Charter helps travellers explore responsibly by following our quick and easy advice.”
NorthLink has taken action to cut its environmental footprint across operations, as part of its commitment to help protect the environment of its ports, the seas, and the islands of Shetland and Orkney.
The ferry operator partnered with Orkney Islands Council and Schneider Electric on the pioneering Hamnavoe Shore Power Project, the first large commercial ship shore connection in the UK, which sees NorthLink’s MV Hamnavoe use clean electrical power as it gets ‘plugged in’ to charge overnight when docked in Stromness.
In addition, almost all (more than 90%) of NorthLink’s hotel operation services – including food, produce, and laundry – are sourced from within a 50-mile radius of the operating port, while all animal waste from the lairage is saved and delivered to farms for use as fertiliser.
The Responsible Visitor Charter can be found here.