UK’s first carbon neutral vessel could contribute over £77m to London’s economy

Management company Smart Group has announced the arrival of the UK’s first CO2-neutral vessel Oceandiva London into the Capital.

Oceandiva London represents an investment of over £25m and could add over £77m to the London economy over the next five years, generating 46,400 days of work for local residents.

The vessel is set to become the most sustainably advanced, carbon neutral ship on the River Thames, set to “revolutionise” London’s hospitality sector. Oceandiva London is the first passenger vessel to receive a Platinum Label Green Award granted by The Green Award, a voluntary quality assessment certification scheme that inspects and certifies ships.

Merging “innovative” architectural design with the latest technology, Oceandiva London will be the first carbon-neutral powered vessel on the River Thames, leading the way to decarbonise the Capital’s river.

Capable of 100 per cent sustainable operation through its propulsion system and energy strategy, Oceandiva London utilises fast charging shore-based renewable energy, and a back-up biofuel generator.

The vessel is now berthed in the Royal Docks where it will complete a superior fit-out, programme of testing, and secure necessary regulatory approvals. The £1.8m fit-out programme will be “cutting-edge”, and “unprecedented” for its level of quality and sophistication, with a sustainable and technology-driven approach.

The vessel boasts “impressive” dimensions spanning three decks and measuring 86m in length and 17m in breadth. With flexible event spaces, the vessel is capable of hosting conferences, exhibitions, receptions, gala dinners, award ceremonies, product launches, and brand activations for up to 1,000 guests once in full service.

Chloe Jackson, managing director of Smart Group, commented: “We are thrilled to have the vessel arrive in London, and we look forward to sharing our vision of revolutionising the events industry with a sustainable, carbon neutral venue on the River Thames.

“Our commitment to consultation with the communities in which we will operate is a top priority, and we are excited to work together to create a project that benefits London and everyone in the community.

“Consultation with riverside communities, local groups, and responsible authorities is critical to our approach. Our ambition is to create a project that delivers real benefits to the communities in which we operate and that we can all be proud of.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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