NYK has once again demonstrated its commitment to marine environmental protection by reaching the Sapphire tier, the highest ranking, in the Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies Vessel Speed Reduction (VSR) Incentive Program. This initiative, which covers the West Coast of North America, is a collaborative effort sponsored by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation,* among others.

NYK Group employees at the awards ceremony
From left, Bradley Williams, Jack Duesler, Rintaro Saito

The VSR Incentive Program encourages voluntary vessel speed reduction in the Santa Barbara Channel and the San Francisco Bay area to protect whale populations and minimize air pollution. An analysis of Automatic Identification System (AIS) data from May 1 to December 31, 2024, indicated that NYK vessels maintained an impressive compliance rate of over 90% in the designated zone.

Award and plaque in recognition of NYK’s achievement

NYK remains committed to prioritizing the prevention of air pollution and the protection of marine life as essential missions while operating across the world’s oceans.
Source: Nippon Yusen Kaisha