Tallink highlights Baltic Sea Day and sustainability commitments

In recent years, Tallink Group has taken consistent steps to make its operations more environmentally sustainable and contribute to the protection of the Baltic Sea.

Baltic Sea Day, celebrated on Thursday, August 28, calls for the preservation of the sea’s unique yet vulnerable ecosystem and highlights the importance of cooperation, awareness, and action across society for a cleaner and more biodiverse marine environment.

Paavo Nõgene, CEO of Tallink Group, said, “Sustainable and environmentally conscious operations have been our norm for years.

“The past few years clearly show that Tallink is not reacting to regulations; we’ve been ahead of them. Emission reduction and the use of shore power in ports are already a reality for us, and the prospect of using bio-LNG is entirely feasible as soon as availability and supply chains become stable.”

While the obligation to use shore power for ships operating in Europe will only come into force in 2030, Tallink’s first vessel began using it already in 2019. Thanks to targeted investments, nine Tallink vessels are currently equipped to use shore power while docked.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a goal to reduce CO₂ emissions by 20% by 2030 compared to 2008 levels. Tallink has already surpassed this target, having achieved a 62% reduction. The IMO’s goal for 2040 is a 70% reduction.

“The challenge in meeting sustainability requirements often lies in the fact that the necessary technologies may not yet exist or are not widely accessible,” Nõgene added. “That’s why national support measures are crucial to encourage further investments and create jobs in the maritime sector. Unfortunately, the growing burden of bureaucratic reporting does little to support these goals.”

Baltic Sea Day was first celebrated in 2019 in Helsinki, initiated by the John Nurminen Foundation. Tallink supports the foundation financially and shares its commitment to environmental protection and the gradual transition toward cleaner operations.

This week themed quizzes will take place aboard Tallink’s ships, and the mascot, Harri the seal, is expected to make surprise appearances at events, offering hugs and handing out gifts.

Tallink is also a founding member of the Energy Efficiency Movement, an international initiative that promotes the sharing of experiences and success stories in advancing energy efficiency.