Chad Carey, Managing Director of Chimu Adventures, has been elected to the Climate Change Committee of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO).
The appointment marks Carey’s latest endeavour in leading sustainability efforts within Antarctic tourism, who said of the announcement, “I want to get involved because I want to change the conversation.”
As an Associate Member of IAATO, a body committed to safe and environmentally responsible Antarctic tourism, Chimu Adventures continues to advocate for eco-friendly practices.
Following IAATO’s April AGM, Carey begins a year-long tenure on the Climate Change Committee, under his role at Intrepid Polar.
“With tour operators submitting emissions data from the previous Antarctic season, we can set a benchmark and then work on reduction,” Carey explained.
Chimu Adventures’ vision aligns seamlessly with Carey’s new role as they strive to be a part of the solution.
“As an expedition cruise company, Antarctica is our primary destination. We are focused on the environment and perfectly positioned to spearhead the industry’s transition towards sustainability,” said Carey.
With Chimu Adventures well on the path towards B Corp Certification, Carey says he aims to bring an innovative sustainability perspective to the Committee, particularly concerning Antarctic ship fuel and infrastructure.
“We need to lobby governments and private enterprises for the necessary sustainable port infrastructure. The key is having the infrastructure in place before we build the ships,” he said.
The commitment to environmental change is evident in Chimu’s operations, including their partnership with Intrepid Travel on the Ocean Endeavour. While they celebrated a 10 per cent fuel efficiency increase last year, they plan to do more. Carey referenced the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism, “Why aim for 10% when we can halve emissions by 2030?”
Carey envisions the Climate Change Committee exploring advancements like water lubrication systems, heat-reusing turbines, new propeller designs, and innovative ship management software.
Over the next year, Carey aims to collaborate with industry partners to make Antarctic tourism more sustainable. Chimu Adventures’ sustainable practices include carbon offsets, citizen science programs, some meat-free meals, and partnerships with environmental charities.
For more information, head to www.chimuadventures.com