Virgin Voyages Goes Green: Tree and Plastic Free
Sir Richard Branson has always been up for a challenge and protecting the planet is no different. Virgin Voyages has announced two eco-friendly partnerships focusing on responsibly sourced and sustainable products aboard its first ship, the Scarlet Lady scheduled for delivery in 2020. Both partnerships are intended to offer travelers a luxurious experience while also being environmentally conscious.
Virgin Voyages and Emerald Brand have announced a strategic sustainability partnership to deliver Virgin Voyages’ guests a unique, Tree-Free™ and plastic-free experience on board their new fleet of ships. The partnership will provide unique, Tree-Free and plastic-free products, including bath tissue, facial tissue, hot cups, paper towels, napkins, straws, bottles, bags, and other items. Virgin and Emerald will deliver a Tree-Free™ experience through the ship’s disposable paper products.
The cruise line has also partnered with specialty coffee pioneer Intelligentsia Coffee who focuses on making extraordinary coffee and has a “direct trade” model, in which their buying teams travel to coffee-producing regions to make deals with growers at above-fair trade prices. Intelligentsia Coffee will create a custom blend that will be available at all bars and restaurants on board the ship, as well as crafted espresso drinks at the ship’s coffee bars. This partnership is rooted in shared values of commitment to quality and responsible sourcing.
With pioneering innovative and sustainable technologies, banning unnecessary single-use plastics, and thoughtfully sourcing food and retail merchandise — Virgin Voyages is creating an experience that balances the duality of enjoying the earth and caring for it.
”There is nothing more important in this world than our oceans, and we’re on a mission to protect them and set an example. Success needn’t compromise sustainability.”
— Richard Branson
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