Gearbulk ESGreport 2024 Paperturn - Flipbook - Page 33
ESG REPORT 2024
POTENTIAL AND ACTUAL IMPACTS
OUR ONGOING EFFORTS TO MANAGE THE IMPACT
Shipping operations can exert substantial pressure on
Gearbulk adopts a holistic strategy in addressing both the
biodiversity through various means, including ballast water
negative and potential impacts on biodiversity, acknowledging
discharge, underwater noise pollution, and the risk of oil spills.
their profound signi昀椀cance to the economy, environment,
Ballast water, often taken on in one location and released in
and human rights. The Company meticulously evaluates its
another, can introduce invasive species to new ecosystems,
operations and partnerships to identify any adverse e昀昀ects
disrupting local biodiversity and ecological balances. Addition-
on biodiversity, ensuring adherence to regulations and ethical
ally, underwater noise from shipping activities can interfere
standards.
with marine life, particularly marine mammals that rely on
sound for communication and navigation.
In terms of preventing invasive species in ballast water, Gearbulk demonstrates a proactive stance by adhering to global
conventions for pest control. Signi昀椀cant strides have been
made in implementing ballast water treatment systems across
the 昀氀eet to minimise the potential transfer of invasive species
across ecosystems. Gearbulk’s commitment to meeting the
requirements of the Ballast Water Management Convention
by 2024 underscores its dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable shipping practices.
Furthermore, Gearbulk prioritises the protection of whales
and ocean habitats, particularly in environmentally sensitive
marine areas. Vessels comply with mandatory speed reduction schemes and voluntarily implement additional measures
to minimise the risk of whale strikes and disturbance during
breeding seasons. Digital navigational tools are utilised to
avoid protected areas, ensuring compliance with regulations
and fostering responsible marine practices.
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