As they settle into their staterooms and begin unpacking their bags as the ship pulls out of port, most cruisers have their minds on the delicious food they’ll soon be sampling and the relaxing activities they’ll be enjoying in the coming days. Few of them are thinking about the fuel efficiency and waste products of the vessel they’re sailing on. However, while sustainability is far from many passengers’ thoughts, the people who build and run cruise ships are increasingly putting such considerations at the forefront of their corporate strategies.
Carnival Corporation—the parent company of Carnival Cruise Line and eight other international brands—recently released a report on its progress toward sustainability goals that were first announced in September 2013. At that time, the company named a number of energy efficiency and waste reduction targets, many of which went far beyond existing regulations.
This past November, Carnival announced in its latest Sustainability Report that it had already reduced CO2 emissions from ship operations by 20 percent—a full year ahead of schedule. Its ongoing $400 million air quality initiative will eventually see the company’s innovative exhaust-cleaning technology installed on over 70 percent of its fleet.
In addition to its pollution remediation measures, Carnival’s Sustainability Report also noted the launch of two ships, the Royal Princess and the AIDAstella. These new vessels are equipped with technologies that make them among the most cost- and fuel-efficient cruise ships on the ocean today.
Carnival Corporation also expanded on a number of other programs currently underway across its brands. In accordance with a mandate from the largest cruise industry trade organization, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Carnival enacted a Passenger Bill of Rights meant to assure customers of its commitment to their well-being and comfort. The company also announced contributions of over $1.5 million to Typhoon Haiyan recovery efforts earlier this year, as well as significant investments across the board to improve ship safety and streamline operations.
Carnival Corporation’s recent report means that cruisers on their ships can rest a little easier, knowing that the company serving them is taking steps to guarantee passenger safety and comfort, and to decrease its environmental footprint.
