The global cruise industry is making waves in its efforts to reduce its environmental impact, with a clear focus on achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This ambitious goal aligns with the Paris Agreement, an international treaty aimed at combating climate change. In 2018, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) committed to this ambitious target, and the industry has since made notable progress toward fulfilling its pledge.
As part of its ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental footprint, CLIA recently released the Global Cruise Industry Environmental Technologies and Practices Report. According to Kelly Craighead, President and CEO of CLIA, the report highlights the significant strides being made across the industry. Cruise lines have been investing in advanced engine technologies that allow ships to run on more renewable energy as it becomes available. Additionally, they have been adopting a range of environmental practices that are contributing to the reduction of emissions.
One of the key trends in the industry’s sustainability efforts is the use of fuel-flexible ships. These vessels are designed to run on various types of fuel, including renewable options, which helps cruise lines make a gradual transition toward cleaner energy. Moreover, selective catalytic reduction technology, which helps reduce harmful nitrogen oxide emissions, has been widely adopted. Cruise lines have also implemented advanced wastewater treatment systems to ensure their ships’ discharges do not harm the marine environment.
South African cruise experts are equally optimistic about the industry’s progress. Henuti Purshotam, Marketing and Product Contractor at Cruises International, shared her thoughts with Travel News, saying she agrees with CLIA’s assessment of the cruise sector’s improvements. However, Purshotam emphasized that large-scale adoption of alternative fuels and the upgrading of older vessels to meet modern environmental standards will require continued investment and innovation over the next several decades to reach the 2050 net-zero target.
Oceania Cruises, one of the brands represented by Cruises International, has been at the forefront of sustainability with its global program, Sail and Sustain. This initiative focuses on driving positive environmental and societal impacts. Oceania’s new builds are designed to use green methanol as an alternative fuel source, and the company is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas intensity by 10% by 2026 and 25% by 2030. Additionally, NCL Holdings, which owns Oceania, has started testing biodiesel blend fuels, which mix marine gas oil with biodiesel to reduce carbon emissions.
Seabourn, another brand under Cruises International, has implemented its own environmental compliance program, Operation Oceans Alive. This initiative encourages employees to actively protect the oceans, seas, and waterways from environmental harm. It emphasizes the importance of preserving ecosystems, plant life, and aquatic animals. Seabourn is also committed to reducing food waste by 2030, utilizing biodigesters to convert organic waste into renewable energy.
Looking ahead, it’s clear that the cruise industry is committed to embracing sustainable practices, and the path toward net-zero emissions by 2050 is well underway. Cruise lines are not only modernizing their fleets but also investing in new technologies and fuel alternatives to ensure a greener future for both the industry and the planet. While challenges remain, the progress made so far shows that a sustainable future for cruising is within reach. As the industry continues to innovate and collaborate, the ocean’s waters may soon be greener than ever.
