HX Expeditions has released its 2025 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report, highlighting progress on emissions reductions, scientific research support and community investment while outlining new sustainability goals through 2030.
According to the report, HX reduced its direct carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions by 12% year-over-year, lowering total emissions to 64,630 metric tonnes. The company also reported a 50% reduction in sulphur oxide emissions and a 14% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions.
The company noted that part of the emissions reduction was related to the removal of MS Maud from the HX fleet, along with operational changes and increased use of low-sulphur marine gas oil.
Published on World Oceans Day, the report marks the expedition cruise company's first ESG report developed in alignment with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), a framework designed to standardize sustainability reporting across the European Union.
Science Remains Central
In 2025, the company provided 1,652 complimentary cabin nights to scientists and research institutions, representing more than €1.4 million in value. The initiative allows researchers access to remote regions that may otherwise be difficult to reach.
HX also reported a 52% increase in citizen science participation from guests, who submitted a record 46,466 observations to projects including eBird and HappyWhale.
As part of its new 2030 sustainability strategy, HX plans to increase the number of complimentary cabin nights available to scientists by 30 per cent beginning in 2027, reaching 3,900 cabin nights.
"HX is setting the industry standard because we lead with science - and our ambition is to keep pushing further, so scientists and researchers can reach the most remote places on Earth and deliver knowledge that really matters," said Chief Scientist Dr. Verena Meraldi.
The report also highlighted a scientific milestone from the 2025-26 Antarctic season, when researcher Dr. Manuel Novillo recorded what HX described as the first documented observation of Antarctic blackfin icefish spawning behaviour near Danco Island using underwater drones.
Ocean Conservation
The report outlines several environmental initiatives undertaken during the year.
Among them was the removal of 1,200 tonnes of ocean plastic through a partnership with Ocean Bottle. HX also deployed ocean monitoring technology that collects data on water quality, carbon dioxide levels, microplastics and biodiversity.
Other environmental measures included a seven percent reduction in food waste per guest night, a 64% decrease in externally sourced water and the introduction of a fully electric "silent science boat" for research activities.
HX reported zero environmental spills across its operations in 2025.
Community Investments
Through the HX Foundation, the company distributed €226,370 (CAD 365,000.12) to 28 projects around the world. Guests contributed an additional €215,195 through onboard fundraising efforts.
The report also noted that women now hold 45% of senior leadership positions within the company, while 27% of sourcing came from local suppliers across 44 vendors.
Destination-specific initiatives highlighted in the report included support for scientific research in Antarctica, locally led tourism experiences in Greenland, community partnerships in Alaska and more than €337,000 in direct economic impact generated for communities along Northwest Passage itineraries.
Sustainability Strategy Targets 2030
The report introduces HX's first long-term sustainability strategy, featuring measurable goals through 2030.
"This report marks a significant step forward in how we define and deliver on our sustainability ambitions," said Gebhard Rainer, CEO of HX Expeditions.
"As we celebrate 130 years of exploration, our 2030 strategy sets a clear path for the future, strengthening accountability, sharpening our focus and ensuring we continue to lead in responsible expedition travel while contributing meaningfully to the wider industry."
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