HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions), the world’s oldest expedition cruise company, has been awarded the coveted 2024 “ESG Transparency Award“ by the European Sustainability Initiative. The company achieved the highest distinction in the “Excellence Class” category and was named the “Leading Company” in the Transparency and Sustainability category, further solidifying its position as a global leader in sustainable tourism and transparent environmental practices.
The award ceremony took place yesterday in Bonn, Germany during the 2024 European Sustainability Week at the Steigenberger Icon Grandhotel & Spa. The accolades highlight HX’s dedication to driving positive environmental change and fostering accountability across the cruise industry.
A Milestone Achievement for Sustainability Leadership
Gebhard Rainer, CEO of HX, who was in Germany to celebrate the award, said: “This recognition validates our commitment to building a sustainable future. It underscores the power of transparency in driving genuine progress. We’re proud to be pioneers in the industry that actually ‘walk the talk’ and remain steadfast in our mission to reduce our ecological footprint and set new standards for sustainable expedition travel.”
Collecting the award at the ceremony was Tudor Morgan, HX’s VP of Sustainability and Industry Relations: “At HX, we believe that true leadership goes beyond exploration — it’s about charting a course for a better, more sustainable future. Winning this award for transparency in ESG is not just a recognition of our efforts; it’s a commitment to continually push the boundaries of integrity and accountability. We are proud to lead with purpose, and this award is a testament to the collective dedication of our entire team to make a lasting positive impact on both the planet and the communities we serve.”
Setting the Bar for ESG Excellence
The “ESG Transparency Award” rigorously evaluates companies using the scientifically developed “ESG Transparency Evaluation Standard,” which measures performance across five key pillars: transparency, environmental impact, social responsibility, corporate governance, and compliance. HX earned the highest score, placing it in the distinguished “Excellence Class,” reserved for organizations with outstanding ESG practices.
Key factors contributing to HX’s recognition were featured in the companies annual ESG Report which is published each April and included:
Innovative Green Technology: HX has pioneered cutting-edge solutions to reduce its environmental footprint, including launching the world’s first battery hybrid-powered cruise ship (2019), eliminating heavy fuel oil (2009), and removing single-use plastics (2018).
Emissions Reduction: HX’s fleet is equipped with advanced green technologies, including battery packs, energy-efficient hull designs, and heat recovery systems. These innovations have led to a 20% reduction in emissions and a commitment to using shore power to minimize port emissions.
Sustainability Metrics: HX has achieved measurable progress in reducing its environmental impact, including:
An 18% reduction in Scope 1 CO2 emissions per passenger night since 2022
A 51% reduction in NOx emissions and 47% in SOx emissions
A 30% reduction in waste per guest and a 16% reduction in water consumption
Commitment to Local Communities: HX’s sustainability efforts extend to supporting 44 communities around the world through the HX Foundation, which funds sustainable development projects. Additionally, 84% of the food and beverages served onboard are sourced regionally, strengthening local economies.
Sustainability is at the core of HX’s strategy, Rainer emphasized: “Our goal is not only to travel in a more sustainable manner but also to leave a positive, lasting impact on the communities we visit. From supporting local economies to minimizing our ecological footprint, every journey with HX is an opportunity to make a difference.”
