HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) announced that it has received the 2024 ESG Transparency Award from the European Sustainability Initiative at European Sustainability Week in Bonn, Germany.

According to a press release, the company was named the “Leading Company” in Transparency and Sustainability and earned the “Excellence Class” designation for outstanding ESG practices.

Gebhard Rainer, CEO of HX: “This recognition validates our commitment to building a sustainable future. It underscores the power of transparency in driving genuine progress. We’re proud to be pioneers in the industry that actually ‘walk the talk’ and remain steadfast in our mission to reduce our ecological footprint and set new standards for sustainable expedition travel.”

Tudor Morgan, HX’s vice president of sustainability and industry relations, collected the award on behalf of the company.

“At HX, we believe that true leadership goes beyond exploration — it’s about charting a course for a better, more sustainable future,” said Morgan. “Winning this award for transparency in ESG is not just a recognition of our efforts; it’s a commitment to continually push the boundaries of integrity and accountability. We are proud to lead with purpose, and this award is a testament to the collective dedication of our entire team to make a lasting positive impact on both the planet and the communities we serve.”

The ESG Transparency Award evaluates companies using the scientifically developed ESG Transparency Evaluation Standard, based on five pillars: transparency, environmental impact, social responsibility, corporate governance and compliance.

HX’s recognition was based on achievements highlighted in its annual ESG Report, including innovative green technologies, the world’s first battery hybrid-powered cruise ship in 2019, eliminating heavy fuel oil in 2009 and removing single-use plastics in 2018. The company has also made strides in emissions reduction, achieving a 20 percent decrease in emissions.

HX’s sustainability progress includes an 18 percent reduction in CO2 emissions per passenger night and a 51 percent decrease in NOx emissions, as well as reductions in waste and water consumption. The company also supports local communities through the HX Foundation and sources 84 percent of its food and beverages regionally.