Silversea Cruises® Leads the Way in Environmental Management in the Galapagos Islands

In a groundbreaking move, Silversea Cruises® has achieved certification in environmental management in the Galapagos Islands, making it the first tour operator to receive this recognition. With a strong commitment to sustainability and conservation, the leading ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line has taken significant steps to protect the delicate ecosystem of the Galapagos.

One of the most notable achievements is Silversea's successful diversion of all waste generated on board Silver Origin® from landfill disposal in the Galapagos. The cruise line goes above and beyond by meticulously classifying and sorting all waste before transporting non-organic materials to the mainland for recycling or processing in compliance with regulatory procedures. Silversea even receives a traceability document, ensuring the responsible movement and disposal of all waste.

Collaborating closely with a local waste management company, Silversea offloads waste generated on Silver Origin in San Cristobal on a weekly basis. Cardboard, cartons, plastic, and crushed glass are flown to the mainland for recycling, while the remaining refuse is transported to Guayaquil on Ecuador's mainland via marine transportation. In Guayaquil, the waste management company collects and recycles or processes the refuse, adhering to environmental legislation and the best sustainability practices. Notably, the company utilises refuse oil as fuel for its incinerator. With full traceability, Silversea ensures that every step of the waste management process is accounted for.

Gabriela Naranjo, Vice President and General Manager of Silversea Cruises Ecuador, expressed immense pride in becoming the first tour operator to receive this environmental management certification. She emphasized Silversea's long-term commitment to sustainability and conservation in the Galapagos Islands, highlighting the initiative's role in safeguarding the archipelago for future generations. This certification is just one of the many ways Silversea is actively working to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Galapagos.

These initiatives are part of Silversea's comprehensive Environmental Management Plan, which has received approval from the Ecuadorian Ministry of Environment. The plan aims to minimize any ecological impact on the Galapagos Islands, aligning with Silversea's overarching commitment to SEA the Future: sustaining the planet, energizing communities, and accelerating innovation.

The Silversea Fund for the Galapagos, launched in 2019, plays a crucial role in preserving the ecological integrity of the islands. The fund supports various education and conservation projects each year, fostering a balance between humans and nature and contributing to long-term sustainability. Guests who donate to the fund receive savings on Silversea voyages, as the cruise line matches their contributions with a Future Cruise Credit.

Silversea's dedication to sustainability extends to its culinary offerings on board Silver Origin. Whenever possible, the cruise line sources produce locally from the Galapagos. In recent years, Silversea has increased its procurement of local ingredients fivefold, collaborating with independent farmers and suppliers on Santa Cruz and San Cristobal. By supporting local farmers, Silversea strengthens the local economy, promotes ongoing conservation efforts, and reduces the importation of products from the Ecuadorian mainland. This practice also mitigates the risk of invasive species entering the islands.

Silversea Cruises® sets a remarkable example in the cruise industry by demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. Through their environmental management initiatives, the cruise line is actively protecting the Galapagos Islands, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at its natural wonders.