Aurora Expeditions has released its first-ever Impact Report for 2022-2023. The seminal document titled ‘Protecting the World’s Wild Places’ represents a new milestone for the operator by formally reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the planet’s fragile wilderness areas.
The benchmark 40-page report signifies an industry first for the 32-year-old expedition operator, who says it underlines Aurora Expedition’s deep commitment to safeguarding our planet’s precious natural landscapes.
By taking a pivotal step forward, the company adds it is not just underscoring its existing dedication to sustainable practices but also mapping out its future objectives, reflecting Aurora Expedition’s intention to integrate sustainability into all aspects of its operations seamlessly.
CEO Michael Heath revealed the Impact Report, saying, “Our commitment to sustainability and our ambition to be a frontrunner in sustainable expedition travel is outlined in our first-ever Impact Report.
“It mirrors our dedication to transparency, acknowledges our ongoing journey towards sustainability, and underlines our keen awareness of the pressing climate crisis.”
Aurora Expeditions Impact Report details their ‘Planet’ and ‘People’ focused initiatives, including:
- Upholding seven of the UN’s Sustainable Development Seventeen Goals (SDGs)
- Achieving 100% Climate Neutral status since 2021
- Implementing strategies for emissions reduction, renewable energy, and biodiversity conservation
- Minimising plastic usage, advancing water conservation, and enhancing waste management practices
- Prioritising education through onboard expert teams, Citizen Science projects, and a focus on promoting female conservationists
- Forging partnerships with like-minded individuals and organisations, like Dr Sylvia Earle and Ocean Geographic, for high-impact projects such as the Antarctic Climate Expedition in February 2023.
As part of its broader sustainable vision, Aurora Expeditions is working towards B Corp Certification, which is currently in the evaluation stage with expected completion in 2024.
Aurora Expeditions says the inaugural Impact Report acknowledges that the company’s emissions reduction is ongoing and is committed to being part of the movement of innovative thought leaders and advocating for the development of new technology to make the expedition cruise industry more sustainable.
The expedition company was among the first operators to become an Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) and International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) member.
To read the report, visit www.auroraexpeditions.com.au/impact-report/
