Cruise lines are stepping up their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, implementing various strategies to contribute to a more sustainable industry. Onboard solutions such as utilizing energy-efficient light bulbs, implementing energy-saving measures in cabins, and reconfiguring heat recirculation systems are just some of the ways cruise lines are striving to minimize their environmental impact.
One of the significant strategies employed by the cruise industry to reduce emissions is the transition to cleaner fuel types for their ships. By changing the fuel sources used, cruise lines aim to make a substantial impact on reducing their carbon footprint. Apart from fuel types, another crucial strategy is utilizing shore power in port, which helps minimize the need to burn fuel while the ships are stationary. Seattle, a key hub for cruises to Alaska, has even mandated that all ships must use shore power by 2027, underscoring the importance of this initiative.
Crafting itineraries that require less fuel is another innovative approach embraced by cruise lines to curb emissions. For instance, MSC Cruises has adopted a new itinerary planning tool, OptiCruise, which is projected to reduce emissions fleetwide by 10% to 15% by 2026. This planning tool optimizes efficiency by considering various factors such as port calls sequencing, ship speed, guest appeal of destinations, operational costs, and more. This forward-thinking strategy aligns with the industry’s ambitious goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Research highlighted in the Marine Pollution Bulletin journal revealed concerning findings about the environmental impact of cruising. It was reported that a large cruise ship could potentially have a greater carbon footprint than thousands of cars, and a weeklong Antarctic cruise could produce CO2 emissions equivalent to an entire year’s worth of emissions by a European. These alarming statistics underscore the urgency for the cruise industry to adopt sustainable practices and mitigate their environmental footprint.
MSC Cruises has been at the forefront of eco-friendly initiatives, testing the OptiCruise program on the MSC Bellissima during its sailings in the Mediterranean. Developed by OPTIMeasy, a research company affiliated with the University of Genoa, the OptiCruise tool is part of the EU-funded Project CHEK, which explores opportunities for low-carbon shipping. While the full implementation of these optimized itineraries won’t be seen until 2026, guests and advisors can anticipate a more sustainable and efficient cruising experience.
As the cruise industry continues to strive for sustainability, there are still lingering questions and challenges to address. How will the new itineraries and schedules impact guests’ experiences? Will there be noticeable differences in time spent at ports? Ultimately, the goal is to seamlessly integrate these eco-friendly practices without compromising guest satisfaction, akin to the inconspicuous efficiency of cabin electricity management. The industry’s commitment to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 necessitates ongoing innovation and collaboration to create a more sustainable future for cruising.