THE results from the 2023 Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies vessel speed reduction (VSR) programme have been announced, showcasing improving air quality, reducing whale risk, and decreasing ocean noise, reports Hellenic Shipping News Worldwide.
This voluntary initiative was active from May 1 to December 15, 2023.
In 2023, a total of 33 global shipping companies participated in the VSR programme, committing to reduce ship speeds while transiting through key regions off California, maintaining speeds of 10 knots or less in the San Francisco and Monterey Bay area, as well as in Southern California.
The Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies programme saw the highest levels of participation and cooperation since its inception in 2014, even without financial incentives.
Recognitions and awards were presented to shipping companies based on performance levels.
Notably, cooperation rates in both regions showed improvement, with an overall participation rate of 81 per cent among participants, up from 78 per cent in the 2022 season.
The number of participating shipping companies also reached a record high, increasing from 23 in 2022.
SeaNews Turkey
This voluntary initiative was active from May 1 to December 15, 2023.
In 2023, a total of 33 global shipping companies participated in the VSR programme, committing to reduce ship speeds while transiting through key regions off California, maintaining speeds of 10 knots or less in the San Francisco and Monterey Bay area, as well as in Southern California.
The Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies programme saw the highest levels of participation and cooperation since its inception in 2014, even without financial incentives.
Recognitions and awards were presented to shipping companies based on performance levels.
Notably, cooperation rates in both regions showed improvement, with an overall participation rate of 81 per cent among participants, up from 78 per cent in the 2022 season.
The number of participating shipping companies also reached a record high, increasing from 23 in 2022.
SeaNews Turkey