Protecting Marine Life

Operational Measures
As we deliver cleaner-burning energy around the world, we must do so in ways that minimise the impact of our operations on marine biodiversity. We practice Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR), reducing our vessel speed to 10 knots or less when we operate in waters which are breeding grounds for cetaceans and marine mammals. This reduces collision risks and helps protect marine biodiversity. In Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSAs), we apply Associated Protective Measures (APM) such as sailing within designated shipping routes and adopting guidelines for safe navigation to protect vulnerable ecosystems.
Ballast water management
We have invested in ballast water treatment systems and use technologies such as ultraviolet and electrolysis neutralisation to limit the release of invasive species during discharge. These practices are in compliance with the IMO and US Ballast Water discharge standards, and our ballast water management policy.
Effluents management
Through the ShipPalm platform by AlphaOri, we harness data and make sense of HSEQ (Health, Safety, Environment and Quality) related data to monitor effluent and waste generation. Should there be a breach of international standards, our records facilitate reporting and help with investigations of potential hazards so that proper corrective and preventive actions can be implemented.
Bilge and ballast water exchange data are tracked monthly. Operational non-compliance, spills and releases are recorded and reported to our HSEQ department for further investigations, involving the management team where necessary.
Waste management
Our waste management policy requires separation, collection, storage and disposal of vessels’ on board waste. Officers supervise the process and ensure crew are aware of these plans. Bilge water, grey water and sewage are also treated with systems on board before they are properly disposed. Throughout the year, our minimising food waste and plastics return campaign raise awareness of the impact of excessive waste and provide tailored recommendations to each vessel on how to further improve practices onboard.
We ensure our fleet is properly maintained and daily machinery inspections are conducted to detect leaks on board and conduct minor repairs. Crew members play an active part to reduce the amount of onboard-generated garbage. Each vessel maintains a Garbage Management Plan and a Garbage Record Book and crew members are also encouraged to suggest ideas on how we can reduce waste further.
IMPA Save
Since 2020, we pledge our support for the IMPA SAVE Council for Maritime Supply Chain Sustainability, an international coalition working to ensure sustainability in maritime supply chains, to reduce the use of single-use plastics onboard our vessels, thus reducing the amount of garbage generated.
Ship recycling
Ship recycling is a fundamental part of the shipping value chain. At the end of a vessel’s commercially viable life, shipowners have a responsibility to ensure that it is recycled responsibly and in a manner that minimizes impact to human health and the environment.
Targets and metrics
Targets
Our ambition is to improve operational efficiency and reduce our environmental footprint. Our strategy is to limit our harmful gas and water emissions, and reduce waste generated from our operations and activities.
Metrics
To assess and manage climate-related risks and opportunities, we identify and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
Regulatory compliance
Ballast water
We comply with the IMO Ballast Water Management Convention. All BW LPG vessels practice a class approved Ballast Water Management Plan which is specific to each vessel, and is written in accordance with the requirements in the International Convention for the Control and Management of the Ship’s Ballast Water and Sediments.
Waste management
We comply with regulations on the prevention of pollution by oil, sewage, noxious liquids, hazardous substances and garbage from ships, contained in Annexes I to VI of the MARPOL convention. For vessels sailing in US waters, we follow the Federal Water Pollution Control Act that prohibits the discharge of oil into its waters. Our crisis management procedure protects our people and the environment during an emergency. Our practices comply with MARPOL conventions and the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, effectively limiting harmful gas and water emissions, and reduce waste generated from our operations and activities.

Emissions and Energy
We are on a journey towards net zero carbon emissions from our vessels, and work in line with the IMO’s targets of 70% reduction in carbon intensity by 2050.

Ship Recycling
BW LPG works with shipyards that operate in compliance with the Hong Kong Convention for the safe recycling of ships.

Environment
Energy powers our world and our energy choices can protect our environment. LPG is a cleaner-burning fuel with plenty of uses.