Established in 1994, the Green Award was first launched as a safety and environmental program for shipping. The Foundation, which is based in Rotterdam / Netherlands, is governed by representatives of the maritime industry and has been awarded the Heyerdahl Award in 2001 for its efforts in supporting sustainable development.

What is the purpose of the partnership?

The Foundation has a rigorous audit program where your vessels on the inland waterways and on the high seas are being audited. During this audit, industry specialists will survey the technical features of the vessel, their maintenance status, and the environmental impact the vessel operation has on the environment. However, although called the Green Award, it is not about greenwashing. The team has always had a strong focus on safety and therefore is heavily focused on occupational workplace safety, reviewing certifications, emergency procedures and appliances needed for this purpose.

All in all, the certification received will be classified from Bronze all the way to Platinum. Whereby Bronze can be seen as an average vessel that complies with most international safety and environmental standards, whilst Platinum highlights the cream de la cream in electric or alternative fuel propulsion systems.

From their humble beginnings in 1994 until today, more than a thousand vessels have been surveyed. These operators will benefit from a host of incentives that are negotiated with port authorities and suppliers that also understand the need to fund sustainable efforts.

Well Done to the Green Award Team!