Our mission is to move cargo sustainably.
On the Schooner Apollonia, we channel the power of wind, tide, muscle, and traditional knowledge to move locally-sourced, shelf-stable products. With each voyage, we create new connections across diverse riverfront communities and work toward a more resilient future.
SUSTAINABILITY
Apollonia’s crew, shipping partners, and supporters care about the environmental impact of our actions. We also know that sustainability is more than a catch-word. In addition to regular assessments of our emissions footprint, our commitment to the environment is informed by local histories, diversities, and ecologies.
Our comprehensive approach to sustainability begins with a deep understanding of place: The founders and crew of Apollonia acknowledge the enduring presence of Lenape, Mohawk, and Mahican peoples, places, and language throughout this region. With each change of tide, we think about the original name for this river: “Mahicannituck”- the river that flows both ways- and consider what we might contribute to a long history of indigenous cultivation and stewardship.
With each port call, it is impossible to not also recognize the many transformations brought about by colonization, urbanization, and industrial development. Up and down the Hudson River, propelled by a sailing rig which itself was perfected in colonial times, we encounter signs of change along the waterfront. Much of these changes–especially the improvement of public access to riverfront space–is incredibly hopeful, while other changes signal the urgency of informed, collective action.
As local communities reconnect with the river, each is increasingly affected by intense rain, heat, and high tides. Together, we are deeply concerned about the influence of local lifestyles on global climate and the reciprocal (but unequal) influence of climate change on every one of us.
As sailors, we know we can’t always change the wind. But working together, we can change our approach to daily life by rethinking how our products are moved. Informed by the past and oriented toward a better future, our vision is a vibrant and resilient network of local producers, conscientious consumers, and port towns connected through sustainable maritime trade. We aim to achieve this in a way that does not reproduce the injustices inherent to a fossil-fueled economy, but that instead creates unlimited opportunities for learning and connectivity.
OUR PRINCIPLES
We are guided by three foundational principles:
1. We are Ultra-Low Emission
We rely on manual effort and renewable energy such as wind, tide, and solar-electric bikes and vehicles in our transportation activities, and we create pathways for other organizations to do the same.
2. We are Labor-Illuminating
We celebrate the efforts of our shipping partners through promotion, networking, personalized service, and reasonable shipping rates. We celebrate the hard work of our crew through training, networking, mentorship, and fair compensation.
3. We Embrace Externalities
We consider frictions and frustrations as opportunities for learning and growth, and believe a network that is more diverse and complex is ultimately more equitable and resilient.
