Staten Island Ferry to Convert Austen Class Ferries to LNG

The Staten Island Ferry, Staten Island, NY, has selected the Passenger Vessel Association’s (PVA) Green WATERS Program—a comprehensive program designed specifically for passenger vessel operators to promote and enhance environmentally responsible practices—as its environmental stewardship program.

“The Staten Island Ferry is the nation’s largest passenger-only ferry system today and in keeping with Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s PlaNYC agenda, we are committed to a cleaner, more efficient ferry fleet as part of a more sustainable future for New York City,” said Staten Island Ferry Chief Operating Officer James C. DeSimone. “LNG is a key part of this approach as we transition to cleaner-burning fuels and as we build a world-class ferry system for the long term.”

PlaNYC is a large-scale effort undertaken by Mayor Bloomberg to prepare New York City for one million more residents, strengthen the local economy, combat climate change, and enhance the quality of life for all New York residents.

Using exemplary environmental practices, including the conversion of an Austen Class ferryboat to clean-burning liquefied natural gas (LNG) that will cut harmful emissions by 25 percent, the Staten Island Ferry is an emerging leader in the growing movement by the passenger vessel industry to practice green and clean marine initiatives. The Austen Class conversion is expected to be the first ferry in North America to use LNG for power. Along with the conversion to LNG, Staten Island Ferry has established an internal “Green Team” to assist in the reduction of energy usage, conservation of natural resources, and promote recycling.

The Staten Island Ferry operates nine ferries carrying almost 22 million passengers annually around New York City.

The PVA environmental program, Green We Are Taking Environmental Responsibility/Stewardship (WATERS), is a voluntary program that recognizes U.S. passenger vessel operators for demonstrating best business practices in regards in the marine environment.