Western Isles ports gain prestigious silver awards

Lochboisdale Port was one of the ones which received a silver award from Keep Scotland Beautiful.

The award acknowledges both companies’ commitment to improving environmental quality at their busy Western Isles harbours.

The accolade, based on the criteria for the National Award for Environmental Excellence®, recognises the achievements of both organisations across a variety of areas, including building maintenance, cleanliness, waste management and engagement with the local community.

In the Western Isles, both sites achieved the silver level award. Lochboisdale was almost completely litter free in public areas and had great signage, whilst Castlebay had a bookswap scheme in place with donations going to a local charity.

Kevin Hobbs, Chief Executive of CMAL, which owns 26 ports and harbours across Scotland, said: “These are hardworking harbours which provide a lifeline service for many islanders. However, they are also the first impression for many tourists visiting some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland, and so maintaining the balance between function and attractiveness is a constant challenge.

“We are pleased to be recognised by Keep Scotland Beautiful for the hard work carried out by ourselves and harbour operators CalMac, and will strive to maintain these high standards.

Klare Chamberlain, Environmental Manager for CalMac, said: “These fantastic awards are down to the hard work of CalMac staff, who take great pride in their ports.

“We carry out regular litter audits at all sites, which has led to the installation of upgraded recycling bins and the provision of more recycling on board ferries. CalMac operates in a beautiful part of the world and is committed to preserving the local environment for all to enjoy.”

Barry Fisher, CEO of Keep Scotland Beautiful, said: “We are delighted to recognise CMAL and CalMac’s environmental commitment as part of our ongoing partnership with them. We are particularly pleased that every site met the requirements for at least a silver level award.

“We work closely with businesses and organisations across Scotland to help and support environmental improvement. Our environmental awards provide an exciting opportunity to assess and reward the efforts that are being made to help keep Scotland beautiful.”

In total, 26 ports were assessed. As well as individual site awards, CMAL and CalMac achieved an overall silver level environmental award.