The cruise industry is facing increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact.
With growing scrutiny on eco-friendly solutions like liquified natural gas (LNG), the industry is exploring innovative approaches to sustainability. This article examines how three leading cruise lines are pioneering efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and promote greener travel.
Marella Cruises is trialling a new microplastic filtration system aboard its ship, Marella Explorer. The initiative, undertaken in partnership with Cleaner Seas Group, involves the installation of Indikon filters in the ship’s laundry system to capture microplastics. This groundbreaking trial, conducted with the University of Surrey, aims to measure the effectiveness of microplastic capture and its impact on marine conservation.
The trial, lasting six months, will guide Marella in potentially rolling out these technologies across its entire fleet, including vessels like Marella Discovery and Marella Voyage. Marella’s sustainability manager emphasised the company’s commitment to reducing its ecological footprint by exploring such pioneering solutions.
Cleaner Seas Group, collaborating closely with Marella Cruises, aims to adapt its technology based on the trial’s findings. The partnership is expected to set new standards in preventing microplastic pollution, with potential long-term benefits for marine ecosystems.
Holland America Line (HAL) is embarking on a biofuel initiative aimed at significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The flagship, Rotterdam, operates with low carbon intensity biofuel derived from organic waste.
The project anticipates an 86 per cent reduction in lifecycle emissions, marking HAL as a pioneer in integrating sustainable fuel solutions within the cruise industry. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to achieving net zero emissions for HAL.
As a part of the Carnival Corporation family, HAL’s biofuel trials set a precedent that has been supported by the Dutch government. Aida Cruises, another Carnival brand, initiated similar tests, emphasizing the corporation’s comprehensive approach to sustainability.
Appointing a full-time sustainability advisor can ensure that environmental goals are consistently met. By having a dedicated expert, companies can integrate effective strategies and monitor their ecological impacts more efficiently.
Involvement in local clean-up events can also showcase corporate commitment to sustainability. Such initiatives, like beach clean-ups, not only aid environmental efforts but also enhance public perception of the company.
Promoting sustainable travel choices is crucial as consumer interest in responsible solutions grows. Highlighting eco-friendly options during planning, such as using rail instead of air transport, can significantly influence traveller decisions.
The cruise industry is making significant strides in addressing environmental challenges.
Innovative solutions from leaders like Holland America Line, Hurtigruten, and Marella Cruises demonstrate that the sector is committed to sustainability. As the demand for greener travel options increases, these efforts set a benchmark for future developments and industry-wide practices.
