The Cruise Lines International Association (Clia) today highlighted ongoing efforts of its member lines to protect the ocean environment to mark Earth Day.
The organisation claims members have been at the forefront of wastewater treatment, emissions reduction and the development of “innovative technologies” to further reduce the environmental impact of cruising.
For example, one line has installed solar panels on five ships, with one of those vessels having 200 solar panels installed, generating enough power to operate approximately 7,000 LED lights.
Another has a suggested climate protection levy of €2 per cabin per day, which supports UN-certified projects in developing countries. The funds have been used to finance CO2-reducing climate protection projects in India and Nicaragua and also environmental education projects in German schools.
Clia European secretary general Robert Ashdown said: “We are extremely proud of the extensive investments and ongoing commitment of our member lines to safeguard the environment for future generations through responsible practices and continuous innovation.
“The cruise industry continues to devote considerable resources and has invested extensively to working with our ship designers and equipment manufacturers to develop and implement a wide range of new technologies that protect air and water quality and increase energy efficiency.”