Aran Island Ferries strives to be a leader in environmental sustainability and believes that a successful future for our business and the passengers we serve depends on the sustainability of the environment, communities and economies in which we operate.
We are committed to minimizing the impact of our operations on the environment by integrating environmental considerations into all our business practices. Aran Island Ferries also instil in our employees, customers, and suppliers our dedication to creating sustainable practices for our business.
We aren’t perfect yet but we are committed to continuously improving our efforts. Recognizing the importance of sustainable practices, we have developed the following environmental policy:
Emission Reduction
Aran Island Ferries operates the biggest domestic passenger only ferries in the country to improve the efficiency of our service. In 2020, Aran Island Ferries introduced Ireland’s biggest vessel, “Saoirse na Farraige”, to the fleet. This increased the capacity of a single ferry from 294 passengers to 392 and enabled us to conserve fuel usage by not operating several smaller boats at the same time in peak season.
Rather than opting for faster and new engines, we have chosen to refurbish and optimize our current engines and transmissions. This decision not only decreases emissions but also improves fuel efficiency.
Aran Island Ferries ensure all vessels are built with the highest specifications and the environment in mind. Vessels are built with ballast tanks that can be filled in inclement weather to steady the ship and emptied, instead of using stabilizers, which create a drag and are uneconomical.
The underwater hulls of all vessels are washed at least twice a year to ensure there is no growth which would adversely affect our fuel efficiency.
Aran Island Ferries promote sustainable ways to travel around the islands including bike hire, walking and hiking trails across all marketing and sales channels as well as in our offices.
The business is a member of the Galway Hydrogen Hub (GH2), Ireland’s first Hydrogen Valley. The hub is used for research, and aims to produce and supply clean, green, hydrogen fuel for public and private vehicles.
Energy Reduction
All new appliances used in offices and on ferries are A-Rated.
Offices are closed during the low-season to conserve energy.
Waste Management:
Aran Island Ferries is dedicated to responsible waste management practices. We have reduced the availability of single use plastics in our offices and on our ferries and implement recycling programs where possible, encouraging both passengers and staff to participate actively.
Passengers are encouraged to leave no trace on the islands with best practices outlined by 'Athchúrsail Arann' or Aran Recycling showcased on our ferries.
The business digitized operations by introducing an online bus and ferry ticketing system which has almost completely eliminated paper tickets.
Customers are encouraged to obtain information on our sailings and the islands via QR codes in our offices and on storefronts to reduce the use of paper.
Water Conservation:
Saltwater is used on our ferries, where possible to flush toilets, deck wash and fire hoses.
Biodiversity and Conservation:
The vessels are constructed of aluminium, this means they don’t corrode (rust). When it’s necessary to repaint, we use the best paint systems available to reduce the repainting times including Intersleek antifouling which is the first biocide free antifouling for the marine industry.
Community Engagement:
Aran Island Ferries will support local environmental initiatives and collaborate with stakeholders to address shared concerns.
The organisation is part of the Aran Islands Decarbonization Steering Committee. The main objective of a Decarbonising Zone is to find innovative but achievable ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the area by 51% by 2030, based on 2018 levels, in line with the National Climate Objective.
Continuous Improvement:
Staff are members of Sustainable Travel Ireland, Ireland's longest running body for the promotion of sustainable and responsible tourism. We are committed to staying informed about emerging technologies and industry best practices
This environmental policy reflects our dedication to sustainable practices and will guide our actions as we work towards a greener and more environmentally responsible future. Aran Island Ferries is committed to making a positive contribution to the well-being of our planet and the communities we serve.