26 Scottish ports receive national environmental award

The accolade recognises the achievements of both organisations across a variety of areas, including building maintenance, cleanliness, waste management and engagement with the local community. Good practices included a clear overarching environmental strategy and the use of renewable energy.

Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive of CMAL, which owns 26 ports and harbours across Scotland, said:

“These are hardworking harbours which provide a lifeline service for many islanders. However, they are also the first impression for many tourists visiting some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland, and so maintaining the balance between function and attractiveness is a constant challenge.

“We are pleased to be recognised by Keep Scotland Beautiful for the hard work carried out by ourselves and harbour operators CalMac, and will strive to maintain these high standards in order to showcase Scotland in all its glory. Travel has been limited this year due to the circumstances, but we look forward to welcoming both locals and tourists back to the network once restrictions ease.”

 Klare Chamberlain, Environmental Manager for CalMac, said: “These fantastic awards are down to the hard work of CalMac staff, who take great pride in their ports.

“We carry out regular litter audits at all sites, which has led to the installation of upgraded recycling bins and the provision of more recycling on board ferries. CalMac operates in a beautiful part of the world and is committed to preserving the local environment for all to enjoy.”

Barry Fisher CEO of Keep Scotland Beautiful said:

“We are delighted to recognise CMAL and CalMac’s environmental commitment as part of our ongoing partnership with them. We are particularly pleased that every site met the requirements for at least a silver level award, and that some exceeded this and achieved the gold level. 

We work closely with businesses and organisations across Scotland to help and support environmental improvement. Our environmental awards provide an exciting opportunity to assess and reward the efforts that are being made to help keep Scotland beautiful.”

As well as individual site awards, CMAL and CalMac achieved an overall silver level environmental award for their management of all sites.

The Ports and Harbours Environmental Award is one of our Environmental Services which help a range of organisations to improve the environmental quality of local places and raise understanding on sustainability issues to achieve positive change.