The global cruise industry is making steady progress towards its long-term sustainability goals, according to the latest report from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). In its 2024 Global Cruise Industry Environmental Technologies and Practices Report, the association highlights the sector’s ongoing efforts to reduce emissions and invest in greener technologies. With the aim of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, cruise lines are focusing on transitional and alternative fuels as well as other environmental advancements.
CLIA President and CEO, Kelly Craighead, expressed optimism over the progress. “Cruise lines are continuing to reduce their emissions at sea and at berth,” she said. “The industry is investing in engine technologies with conversion capabilities, allowing ships to use more renewable energy sources as they become available.”
Advances in Fleet and Fuel Flexibility
As of 2024, CLIA represents 303 cruise ships across 45 brands, accounting for 90% of the global cruise capacity. Of these, the majority are small to mid-sized ships, reflecting a diverse range of vessel sizes catering to various markets and destinations.
One of the key areas of focus in the report is the move towards fuel flexibility. CLIA member cruise lines are investing in engines that can accommodate renewable biodiesel and green methanol, alongside the adoption of liquified natural gas (LNG). At present, 19 ships are using LNG as their primary propulsion, which significantly reduces emissions of sulphur and nitrogen oxides (NOx) and helps to cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20%. LNG’s potential for future fuel conversions makes it an important transitional technology for the cruise industry.
Additionally, the sector is addressing the challenge of methane slip (the leakage of small amounts of methane during LNG combustion), with solutions being developed to reduce these emissions to less than 1% in the near future.
Environmental Technologies on the Rise
The use of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology has seen a substantial increase, with 71 ships now equipped with SCR systems. This technology cuts nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, ensuring ships comply with International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Tier III standards for emissions.
CLIA also reports significant growth in the deployment of Onshore Power Supply (OPS), which allows ships to turn off their engines while docked, reducing overall emissions by up to 98%. More than half of the CLIA-member fleet (147 ships) are now able to connect to OPS, a 23% increase compared to last year. By 2028, this figure is expected to rise to 239 ships, underscoring the industry’s commitment to investing in clean energy infrastructure.
However, the availability of OPS in ports remains a challenge, with only 35 global cruise ports currently equipped to provide shore power. CLIA is advocating for increased investment in shore power infrastructure, especially as European Union regulations will require major ports to offer OPS by 2030.
Advanced Wastewater Treatment and Freshwater Production
The report also highlights advances in Advanced Wastewater Treatment Systems (AWTS), with 225 ships (representing 84% of global passenger capacity) now equipped with AWTS. These systems exceed MARPOL Annex IV requirements, with some performing better than land-based treatment facilities. Furthermore, CLIA-member cruise lines have committed to ensuring no untreated sewage is released during normal operations.
In terms of freshwater production, 267 ships now have the ability to produce their own fresh water, with 60% capable of meeting their entire consumption needs through onboard production.
Industry’s Path to Net Zero
The report demonstrates the cruise industry’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. Craighead acknowledged that while there is still work to be done, the steps outlined in the report reflect the sector’s dedication to driving meaningful change.
As part of its Fit for 55 decarbonisation regulations, the EU is pushing for further reductions in emissions, which will also encourage investment in technologies like OPS. The industry’s efforts to transition towards renewable energy sources and adopt a range of emission-reducing technologies are seen as pivotal to achieving the goal of net zero by 2050.
This report underscores the importance of continued collaboration between cruise lines, governments, and ports to ensure a more sustainable future for the global cruise industry.
For more information, please visit cruising.org