WIGHTLINK has unveiled a green agenda — with targets aimed at increasing recycling, replacing single use plastics, reducing food miles and cutting emissions.

The plans were unveiled at a meeting with Isle of Wight community stakeholders, held at the ferry company's Fishbourne terminal.

After outlining the strategy to look after the Solent and its coastline, chief executive Keith Greenfield then invited guests on a round trip to Portsmouth onboard Wightlink’s £30million hybrid energy flagship, Victoria of Wight.

Wightlink’s environmental officer, Nicola Craig, and head of retail, Simon Lewis, spoke about green initiatives that had been introduced across the routes.

They include increasing recycling, replacing plastic cutlery with sustainable wooden alternatives, reducing food miles by buying from Isle of Wight suppliers, cutting emissions and providing electric vehicle charging points at ports.

Among the guests were representatives from the Isle of Wight Council, Fishbourne Parish Council, schools and businesses.

Staff from Visit Isle of Wight spoke about the 'green star' scheme, which acknowledges companies that promote sustainable transport. Wightlink has been awarded a gold star for its efforts.

Mr Greenfield said: “We care about the environment and will do our best to protect the sea, land and air that surround us.

“We will always consider environmental factors as we operate our ships and ports and when we make business decisions.

“We will continually look for new ways to reduce our environmental footprint.”

For further information about Wightlink’s green agenda, visit www.wightlink.co.uk/green