Our commitment
As the largest tourism operator in Banks Peninsula and one with a reliance on our natural environment, we seek to be a leader in environmental management programmes.We recognise that we have a unique and special responsibility to the marine environment that we operate in and especially to one of the world's rarest dolphins - the Hector's Dolphin. Our company will operate with minimal impact on the environment and our interaction with wildlife will be on a 'partnership' basis where the benefits flow both ways. We are working with environmental certification programmes including Qualmark Green as tangible evidence of our commitment.
What we use
We operate eight vessels which use diesel; we also use water, electricity, petrol and oil. We will reduce our energy consumption on a per person basis by 1% per year. This is achieved by a number of means including having a very young average age of engines combined with effective maintenance for ultimate efficiency.The latest technology anti foul paint combined with appropriate speeds of vessels will reduce fuel consumption. Policies for reducing fresh water and electricity consumption include encouraging short showers and use of dry suits.
What we leave behind
We aim to minimize what we leave behind by reducing our energy consumption and thus reducing carbon emissions. In addition we will reduce waste by minimal use of non-recyclable materials and recycle/reuse materials where possible. Boarding passes are reused and brochures are printed on eco-friendly paper.Effective maintenance programmes combined with training also reduce the risk of environmental emergencies.
What we give back
We can and have had an incredibly positive impact on the local environment and community. Our programmes include committing resources to education, advocacy and research. A portion of each fare goes to dolphin and community projects totalling at least $70,000 annually. We will continue to find new ways to facilitate and lead in the protection of the Hector's Dolphin and the White Flippered Penguin. We sponsor the annual sea week event and are a key supporter of the Quail Island tree planting project.In addition we employ local people and use local products and services when available.
Black Cat Cruises complies with all environmental legislation and other requirements but is determined to go further than the legal minimum to demonstrate our commitment. This policy is promoted to customers, staff and suppliers.
View Cambell Live video on our efforts to save the world's smallest penguin.
Paul Bingham
Managing Director, Black Cat Group
Environment and Community Fund
Each year Black Cat Group makes a contribution from our ticket sales towards research, restoration and education about marine life and the history of Banks Peninsula.In 2009/10, the fund totalled $65,000 and was contributed to the following activities:
- Marine Mammal research and education $37,000
- Quail Island restoration trust (including sponsorship) $8,000
- Penguin Predator trapping programme $4,000
- Rescue Fund $3,000
- Fundraising sponsorship $5,000
- Sea week sponsorship $3,000
- Advocacy allowances $5,000
Our Environmental Plan
To read our environmental plan in more detail please click below.Environment Plan
