At Viking Tours, we are committed to protecting our inland waterways and reducing our environmental impact. Our business is committed to aligning with the EU Just Transition goals and Ireland’s national sustainability objectives by integrating environmentally and socially responsible practices into our operations. We actively support the transition to a low-carbon economy by investing in sustainable energy solutions, reducing emissions, and implementing circular economy principles. Our initiatives focus on job creation, workforce reskilling, and fostering community engagement to ensure an inclusive and equitable shift towards sustainability. By collaborating with key stakeholders, we aim to contribute meaningfully to Ireland’s Climate Action Plan and the EU’s Green Deal, ensuring long-term economic and environmental resilience.
Ahead of schedule, we transitioned our diesel engines to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), a more sustainable fuel that can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 90%, particulate matter by 30%, and nitrogen oxides (NOx) by 9% compared to conventional diesel. As a result, our total annual CO₂ emissions per annum have reduced from 54.2 tonnes to approximately 19.8 tonnes.
Additionally, by August 2026 we plan to install a marine waste holding tank, preventing the direct discharge of sewage and wastewater into our rivers, canals and lakes.
By adopting these measures, we will contribute to cleaner air, healthier waterways, and a more sustainable future for inland navigation, ensuring we do our part to protect these vital ecosystems.
