- NYK earned the highest Sapphire tier in the VSR Program for reducing vessel speeds to protect marine life and air quality.
- The company maintained a compliance rate of over 90% in ecologically sensitive areas during 2024.
- This milestone highlights NYK’s voluntary efforts toward sustainability and marine environmental protection.
NYK has attained the prestigious Sapphire tier—the highest level—in the Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) Incentive Program. This initiative aims to safeguard whale populations and reduce air emissions off the West Coast of North America. The program is supported by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation and other partners.
High Compliance Rate
The program encourages ships to voluntarily reduce speeds in sensitive marine areas like the Santa Barbara Channel and San Francisco Bay. From May 1 to December 31, 2024, AIS data showed that NYK vessels achieved a compliance rate exceeding 90% in these zones.
Environmental Commitment
NYK’s achievement reflects its ongoing commitment to marine conservation and clean shipping practices. By adopting voluntary speed reductions, the company contributes to both whale protection and air pollution mitigation while operating globally.
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Source: NYK Line
