Cruise Industry to Cut Carbon Emissions 40%

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) announced an industry commitment to reduce the rate of the global fleet's carbon emissions 40% by 2030, from a 2008 baseline.

"We aspire to the International Maritime Organization’s vision of a carbon-free shipping industry by the end of the century," said Arnold Donald, global CLIA chairman and president and CEO, Carnival Corp. & plc. "Our commitment to a 40 percent reduction in the rate of emissions by 2030 is a strong first step toward realizing that vision."

The commitment to reduce the rate of global fleet emissions by 40 percent is the outcome of a collaborative process designed to build consensus among cruise line leadership.

Progress toward the 40 percent target will be measured against a 2008 fleet baseline, and emissions rates will be calculated based on the fleet’s total carbon emissions, total ship berths and total distance traveled.

CLIA plans to report annually on the industry’s progress toward the commitment.

While CLIA Cruise Lines each have responsible and sustainable programs to reduce waste and preserve and protect the oceans, the commitment to reduce the rate of carbon emissions is a significant initiative they have taken together to reduce GHG Emissions. The reduction will be fueled by innovative technologies for energy efficiency in ship design and propulsion.

The industry’s first liquified natural gas (LNG)-powered ship launched just last week, and some 25 such ships could be operating by 2025. While LNG ships principally address pollution, there is a corresponding benefit for carbon emissions reduction

"Cruise is proud to be a maritime industry leader in making a joint carbon emissions commitment to sustainability on the seas," said a statement.