This Earth Day, JAS is proud to share that we have been recognized as a Sapphire Ambassador by the Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies (BWBS) Program for the second consecutive year, reflecting our continued commitment to marine conservation and responsible ocean freight practices.
The Sapphire Ambassador distinction is the highest level of recognition within the BWBS Ambassador Program and awards organizations that ensure that over 90% of import and export shipments through California ports in 2025 were handled by ocean carriers that support whale-safer vessel speeds along the California coast.
JAS was honored at the annual Blue Whales Blue Skies awards ceremony held on April 22, 2026, at Scott’s Jack London Square in Oakland, California
Why whale protection matters
Whales play a critical role in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. They support marine food webs, contribute to ocean productivity, and help sustain biodiversity and climate regulation. However, major shipping corridors overlap with important whale habitats, exposing whales to risks such as ship strikes, and underwater noise.
The BWBS Program addresses these challenges through encouraging and verifying Voluntary Vessel Speed (VSR) reduction efforts in key coastal habitats. Slower vessel speeds significantly reduces the risk of whale strikes while also lowering emissions and underwater noise- which can threaten whales capacity to forage, communicate, hunt and navigate. Each year BWBS quantifies the conservation benefits of participating ocean carriers‘ efforts for whales, as well as the associated reduction in air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, translating how voluntary action yields measurable benefits for marine life and nearby communities.
Turning shipments into impact
As a non-asset-based logistics provider, JAS works closely with ocean carrier partners to recognize our participation in the initiative, share progress, and motivate continued and expanded involvement across the industry.
Achieving Sapphire Ambassador recognition again demonstrates the impact of this collaborative approach. It highlights how dialogue and shared responsibility can translate into measurable environmental outcomes in global logistics.
Marking Earth Day with action
Ocean health, biodiversity protection, and climate action are closely connected. Addressing these challenges requires consistent participation across value chains and industries.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to working alongside our customers, carriers, and partners to help ensure that global trade can move forward while respecting the oceans that support life on Earth.
