In honor of its environmental leadership, Holland America Line was presented–for the 2nd time–with a gold 2012 Rear Admiral William M. Benkert Environmental Protection Award from the U.S. Coast Guard on Monday May 21. The award, which was first received by the company in 2010, was given in recognition of the cruise line’s success in achieving several environmental objectives that exceed standard regulations.

The William M. Benkert Award, which is awarded biennially, is the prime marine environmental protection award presented by the Coast Guard to members of the marine industry.
“At Holland America Line we recognize that environmental stewardship is a daily responsibility, and we are continually seeking ways to enhance and extend our initiatives,” said Stein Kruse, president and CEO of Holland America Line. “We are honored that the U.S. Coast Guard acknowledged our efforts with a second Benkert Award.”

Holland America Line leads the cruise industry in eco-friendly initiatives with a comprehensive approach to reducing its carbon footprint. In 2011, the cruise line implemented a sustainable seafood programme to ensure that only sustainable seafood is used on all Holland America Line ships.

The company’s Environmental Management System was certified in 2006 and recertified in 2009, and continues to work diligently to conserve fuel and water. Additionally, Holland America Line has the latest technologies for wastewater and oily bilge water treatment, and uses ground-breaking strategies to reduce and manage its solid waste stream.

The purpose for the Benkert Award is to:

• Improve the environmental performance and quality of marine transportation.
• Encourage cruise lines to implement the international environmental management protocol developed by the International Standards Organization.
• Increase public awareness about the marine environment and its delicate ecosystems, as well the importance of its protection.
• Provide an open venue where marine enterprises can share successful methods and techniques used by the winners.

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