CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Horizon Lines, a domestic ocean shipping and transportation company, has announced a number of environmental programs targeting all major sectors of its operations.

The overall initiative, called Horizon Green, takes into account marine environment, emissions, sustainability and carbon offsets.

To lessen its impact on the marine environment, Horizon is running a number of new programs in addition to those for compliance with regulations. The company is trying out waste stream analysis, using low sulfur diesel that performs better than current standards, utilizing biodegradable lube oil and making plans for marine terminal pollution mitigation.

To cut emissions, the company is looking to make improvements to vessel and truck fuel consumption and efficiency, use alternative fuels and try out efficient alternatives, such as coastwise shipping.

Along with cutting overall fossil fuel use, Horizon is aiming to use more recycled materials when building containers and putting recycling and energy efficiency measures in place in offices and facilities.

Lastly, Horizon has partnered with Aero Green, a carbon offset shipping program, letting customers purchase offsets through 3Degrees.