Beyond compliance
Via our Code of Conduct, we are committed to operating with integrity and fostering an environment where transparency, accountability, and compliance are integral to our company culture and strategy. Furthermore, we have a very strong anti-corruption practice, which drives us to go beyond mere compliance. Our dedication to ethical conduct ensures that we uphold the highest standards in all our operations, reinforcing trust with all of our partners and promoting sustainable business practices.
When it comes to our people, we prioritize safety and environmental stewardship through comprehensive training programs tailored for all seafarers. This includes mandatory refresher courses and specialized training to minimize risks and ensure compliance with the latest safety and environmental protocols. Our extensive training (we offer technical, operational, and environmental courses) goes beyond compliance to enhance our capabilities and ensure operational efficiency.
In this same space, we aim to nurture the next generation of maritime professionals. Our structured internship program, standardized since 2023, equips interns with essential skills, with a commitment to hiring 20% of interns annually. Our dedication to gender diversity is demonstrated through participation in the ‘All Aboard Alliance,’ where we actively promote a gender-inclusive workplace with a gender ratio of 64% men and 34% women. Finally, we uphold a strict anti-harassment policy, supported by comprehensive training and an open reporting system, fostering a culture of inclusion and trust. We believe these initiatives advance the maritime profession in society and we are proud to play a role in this mission.
We exceed compliance requirements when it comes to our sustainability initiatives as well. Key initiatives include benchmarking our fleet using the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and adopting Engine Power Limitation (EPL) to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Our sustainability efforts are further enhanced by the Blue Visby Solution, an integrated system that notifies ships of the optimal date and time for arriving at their destination, optimizing vessel routing, and choosing green corridors. Additionally, DSS participates in a consortium in China to explore and develop ammonia fuels, showcasing our commitment to innovative and sustainable fuel solutions.
Diana Shipping Inc is a member of the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN), which upholds ethical standards in the maritime industry, promoting fair and transparent practices globally. This commitment aligns with our own governance philosophy, emphasizing transparency in procurement and compliance with ethical standards. Conducting business activities with integrity is a fundamental principle that guides us and enables our successful operation in today's environment. To reinforce this commitment, we have adopted the "Sanction Compliance Policy - Diana Shipping Inc," ensuring that all our activities adhere to the highest standards of compliance and ethical conduct.
Our governance framework embeds sustainability deeply into our operations, exceeding regulatory requirements and showcasing our proactive approach to environmental stewardship. Recognized with prestigious awards, including the 2024 ESG SHIPPING AWARDS, underscores our leadership in decarbonization and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Aligned with our commitment to integrity, we adhere to ISO 14001 standards, ensuring effective environmental management systems that minimize our environmental footprint. This certification underscores our dedication to sustainability and regulatory compliance. Our ISO 27001 certification underscores our commitment to maintaining rigorous information security standards, reflecting our dedication to operational integrity and resilience in a dynamic maritime environment.
Finally, our "Culture Project" integrates our mission, vision, and values across all departments, enhancing employee engagement and aligning individual goals with our collective mission. This initiative reinforces our culture of excellence, driving success and resilience at DSS.
In summary, DSS is committed to exceeding regulatory requirements through our approach to integrity, sustainability, protecting & developing our people and operational excellence.