Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Steering a
Sustainable
Course
CLIA Report on Commitment to
Environmental Protection
Forewords and
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
1
Executive Summary
Sustainable
Course
Steering a
CLIA at 35:
Table of Contents
Forewords and Executive Summary 3
CRUISE LINES INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION (CLIA) 3
ALASKA CRUISE ASSOCIATION 4
EUROPEAN CRUISE COUNCIL and PASSENGER SHIPPING ASSOCIATION 5
NORTHWEST CRUISESHIP ASSOCIATION 6
FLORIDA-CARIBBEAN CRUISE ASSOCIATION 7
EXecutive Summary 8
PART V: PARTNERSHIPS 46
CHAPTER 15 – Conservation International 47
3
Executive Summary
Forewords and
When you think of a cruise, don’t clear, blue, ahead to our next 35 years and beyond.
pristine oceans come to mind? We at the For example, we are proud that our
Cruise Lines International Association are advanced wastewater systems produce
doing all we can and more to ensure this water cleaner than what is discharged from
picture does not change. 2010 marks the 35th most municipalities, our efficient engine
anniversary of CLIA, and we are celebrating technologies conserve fuel and minimize air
thirty-five years of progress toward emissions, and our many energy conservation
innovating new technologies and operating programs, including LED light bulbs and
our ships in ways that minimize the impact extensive recycling procedures reduce energy
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
cruising has on the environment. Our and allow for reutilization of resources.
industry has a vested interest in protecting
the environment, because it is upon our Our story is all about growth and the
beautiful oceans that we sail. evolution of the modern cruise industry.
Along with our impressive growth - 118
Ocean liners have always had a simple new ships since 2000, and average annual
appeal: enjoy the clean open air and growth in passengers of 7.4 percent
sea breeze while traveling to a special since 1980 - comes with it an impressive
destination. This was true for the first responsibility to protect the fragile natural
transatlantic luxury liners and remained true environments in which we operate.
as ocean liners began the transformation in
the 1970s into what we know today as cruise The faces behind the ships make it all
ships – destinations in and of themselves. happen. People are at the core of our
environmental progress; from welders at
The cruise industry recognizes and the shipyards where our hulls are laid, the
appreciates our responsibility to minimize manufacturers that supply our energy
our environmental impact. CLIA has made efficient equipment such as solar panels, the
great strides in our 35 years to become environmental officers and engineers aboard
a leader in the maritime industry with our ships, to the recycling sorters below deck
responsible practices and innovations that and so on, our environmental achievements
are reducing environmental impact. Cruising are a credit to the men and women who have
is not what it used to be. New technologies, pledged a career in the cruise ship industry.
such as eco-friendly slick hull coatings that
allow ships to move more efficiently through This report will demonstrate how far we
water, have evolved right alongside the list have come in 35 years. In the end, we at
of amenities. It would be hard to invent a CLIA believe that industries have a social
story of such innovation and change. responsibility to protect and nourish the
environments in which they operate, and we
We have invested millions of dollars in strive to push innovation forward to become
research and technology to ensure we are better environmental stewards every day.
steering a sustainable course as we look
4
Executive Summary
Forewords and
Protecting Alaska’s pristine wilderness and calculate receiving water concentrations. More
spectacular marine environment is our highest recently, the industry participated in a near- field
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
priority and we take pride in the significant discharge dispersion study in Skagway, Alaska to
progress cruise lines have made in recent years. determine the effects of dispersion in a slack-
tide “worst case” scenario in a very enclosed
The cruise industry continues to be the leader in waterway. The industry also participated in a
utilizing the most technologically advanced and workshop with the State of Alaska to evaluate
environmentally beneficial wastewater treatment current and emerging technology. This work is
systems in Alaska, including technology the State continuing with the creation of a new science
of Alaska characterizes as “systems that produce panel.
a very high quality discharge, much higher, for
example, than the great majority of shore-based Communicating the industry’s success in
municipal sewage treatment systems.” protecting the environment remains a high
priority. In the last several years, numerous
In 2002, the Alaska Legislature imposed the groups have been addressed and hundreds of
highest standards in the world for wastewater community leaders have participated in ship
discharge from large cruise ships. In response, tours to see the advanced systems first hand.
the industry invested hundreds of millions of The Alaska Cruise Association partners with
dollars to develop and install onboard technology conservation organizations to showcase our
to comply with the standards. The cooperative environmental record.
effort between the State of Alaska and the cruise
industry has led to the use of the best, most In Alaska the cruise lines will continue to lead in
advanced, wastewater treatment facilities in the responsible environmental stewardship.
state.
Executive Summary
Forewords and
EUROPEAN CRUISE COUNCIL and PASSENGER
SHIPPING ASSOCIATION
Europe has become the center of gravity for the are working with all interested groups to ensure
global cruise sector over recent years and despite appropriate reception facilities are in place in
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
the challenging economic climate, the European the shortest possible time. The Council is also in
cruise market continues to grow. discussion with the EU Commission on revision
of the 2005 Sulfur Directive in 2011 and on the
The challenge for the European cruise sector is related issue of the possible future proposals to
to ensure this growth goes hand in hand with IMO for further Emissions Control Areas within
the protection of the environment – minimizing Europe.
negative impacts while improving positive impacts
and supporting sustainable tourism. Marine wildlife conservation efforts and scientific
research are also high priorities and cruise lines
At European and international levels, the cruise have partnerships with a number of organizations,
industry is engaged in ongoing, active and including the World Wildlife Fund to support
constructive discussions in key areas such as protected marine areas within the Mediterranean.
climate change, air emissions and the discharge of
waste.
The thrill of cruising through fjords, glaciers, and the areas visited is their pristine beauty, so
along the narrow and spectacular Inside Passage preserving it is essential.
that connects Washington, British Columbia, the
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
Yukon and Alaska has added to the allure and Just as the size of ships has grown, so has the
fascination of the Pacific Northwest for over a technology relating to ships. There have been
century. It is one of the world’s most popular great advances in navigation, safety, propulsion
cruise vacation destinations. While Canada’s east and environmental technology. While
coast and the historical cities of Quebec offer representing only .002 percent of all ocean-
cruise passengers the opportunity to experience going vessels worldwide, the cruise industry
dramatic scenery, diverse cultures and natural is on the cutting edge of environmental
wildlife. protection and technology development.
Cruise ship operations are subject to city/port, North West & Canada Cruise Association member
provincial/state, federal, and international lines are at the forefront of these developments,
laws and regulations. They must comply with serving as a model for cruise ships in other
environmental standards and laws set by the jurisdictions. Collectively they have invested over
International Maritime Organization (IMO), $100 million on wastewater purification systems
various maritime classification societies, as that treat water to standards higher than most
well as national and regional regulations and land-based operations. Additionally, cruise lines
agreements. have invested in cleaner burning fuels and gas
turbine engines that reduce air emissions and
Innovative, cost-efficient and environmentally the development of shore power in Seattle,
responsive cruise ships start on the drawing Vancouver and Juneau.
board. The challenge is to find the most They have adopted
advantageous technological design that will aggressive programs
meet the requirements for fuel efficiency and of waste minimization,
provide outstanding passenger experiences, waste reuse and
while meeting and in many cases exceeding recycling, waste stream
regulatory requirements. management and shore
side waste disposal.
The cruise industry is continually working
to ensure a safe and sustainable cruise ship
environment. The primary attraction of
7
Executive Summary
Forewords and
FLORIDA-CARIBBEAN CRUISE ASSOCIATION
The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) the cruise industry’s partnership and tangibly
and its member cruise lines are committed to demonstrate the FCCA member lines’ concern for
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
supporting sustainable tourism in our partner the destinations they visit.
destinations where our ships call through
programs and policies that protect the natural The FCCA has also partnered with Cozumel,
environment. The FCCA works with Caribbean and Mexico, and Belize to develop environmental
Latin American governments as well as private stewardship policies to formulate environmental
sector organizations to implement programs practices to sustain both cruise and land
and launch initiatives that promote responsible based tourism. The FCCA has signed landmark
environmental practices. memorandums of understanding with both
destinations and continues to work with all
“The FCCA member lines and their employees destinations on environmental practices.
are committed to the highest environmental
standards through cutting-edge environmental In the last 14 years, more than 30 Caribbean and
policies, procedures, technologies, and through Latin American destinations participated in the
a variety of programs that engage partner FCCA’s environmental poster competition. This
communities” said Micky Arison, Chairman & CEO, competition focuses on having the youth of our
Carnival Corporation and former FCCA Chairman. partner destinations reinforce and develop ideas
“These measures are vital to preserving the to protect the environment.
natural environment of the destinations to which
we bring our guests, as well as the waters on As part of the FCCA’s Membership programs
which we sail.” working in conjunction with FCCA’s insurance
broker, AON, all tour operators are held to a very
The FCCA supports environmental sustainability high environmental and safety standard as is in
through several initiatives. An example is our keeping with the member lines corporate policies.
Environmental Outreach Program that for
that for more than a decade has worked with
destinations and crew members to organize
annual beach clean-ups in partner destinations,
including the Cayman Islands; Cozumel, Mexico;
Belize; Nassau, Bahamas and St. Croix, U.S.V.I.
The clean-up projects are designed to reinforce
8
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Executive Summary
Forewords and
In the 35 years since the Cruise Lines International drains) and graywater (water from cabin sinks and
Association (CLIA) was established, our industry showers, laundry, galleys and spas) discharge is
has made significant progress in reducing our often regulated to a higher standard than most land-
environmental impact by implementing responsible based facilities. Our industry adopted its own set of
practices and investing in new technologies. Put stringent wastewater practices that go beyond the
simply, CLIA believes that it is our responsibility to rules and regulations. For example, while regulations
protect the environment in which we operate. This permit the discharge of untreated blackwater 12
report describes how far we have come in 35 years. nautical miles from shore, as a policy CLIA members
treat all blackwater using equipment certified to meet
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
Executive Summary
Forewords and
efficient ships have come into service. In the near by reducing resistance. Other innovations include
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
future, international regulations will further reduce heat recovery that allows heat to be collected from
sulfur limits, helping to reduce air emissions across one system aboard a ship and used for another, and
all oceans. To meet these standards, we have been innovative air conditioning systems that run more
investing in new technologies that manage the use effectively and utilize technology that minimizes
of energy more effectively, such as testing the first- the amount of energy used to cool a room when it is
ever cruise ship engine exhaust gas scrubber and not occupied. Ships are now using energy- efficient
developing engines that run more efficiently. light bulbs that generate less heat. One of the latest
innovations to be found on cruise ships is solar
Cruise lines often work alongside ports to reduce panels. Because ships spend so much time under
waste and emissions. This is best demonstrated by the bright sun, solar panels are a good source of
the use of shore power, a relatively new technology supplementary energy.
in the cruise ship arena, which involves a ship
connecting to shore-side power and shutting down Partnerships
its own engines while in port. A handful of ports on In addition to working with ports, CLIA turned to
the North American west coast are now equipped Conservation International in 2003 to serve as an
with the necessary facilities for ships to ‘plug-in’ environmental advisor to make recommendations
when they are in port. CLIA members are involved on how to further minimize the cruise industry’s
at the international level to explore a universal environmental footprint and to maximize positive
approach toward shore power, to overcome current outcomes for nature conservation in key regions
obstacles, which involve the source of shore power, where the industry operates.
the connection adapter itself, as well as electrical
disparities from one country to the next.
10
F RAMEWOR K
PART I:
Regulatory
Framework
11
CHAPTER 1
The cruise industry is truly a and practices so that CLIA members INTERNATIONAL
global industry, with Cruise Lines meet, and very often exceed, each REGULATIONS
International Association (CLIA) and every regulatory requirement.
member lines carrying more than The multi-layered set of regulations
14 million passengers per year Cruise ships are regularly inspected begins at the international level
to destinations all around the to ensure the requirements are with agencies that are a part of the
globe. Appropriately, the cruise being met. Shipping classification United Nations: the International
industry is primarily regulated at societies - independent expert Maritime Organization (IMO),
the international level, however organizations - inspect cruise ships International Labour Organization
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
flag states (countries where ships for compliance with the many (ILO) and World Health Organization
are registered), and port states applicable rules and requirements. (WHO). The IMO specifically
(countries where our ships visit), Flag states, port states and other regulates the shipping industry
regulate the industry as well. external organizations also regularly and in the 35 years since CLIA
inspect, examine and audit all was established there have been
This sophisticated matrix of aspects of cruise ship environmental many updates in this regulatory
regulations affect not only the way compliance and operations. To framework. The most important
cruise ships are built, but also how ensure compliance, our ocean-going of these initiatives related to the
operators manage a host of issues, ships all have senior-level staff environment is the adoption of the
from waste handling to overboard on board whose responsibilities IMO Convention for the Prevention
discharge and energy consumption. include 24-hour compliance with the of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL)
It is our everyday goal to be an many different regulations ships’ which sets strict standards for all
innovative leader developing the encounter as they travel from one commercial vessels to prevent ship-
highest environmental standards destination to another. generated pollution. The result of
considerable efforts by IMO member
governments, MARPOL and its six
annexes are continually updated
to reflect current technological
The cruise industry is truly a global capabilities.
Cruise ships lines are an important voice to Pollution Act of 1990 helped bring
REGU L ATORY F RAMEWOR K
ships all have the Energy Efficiency Design Index into force. This permit imposes
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
(EEDI). In the future this index will additional controls on the discharges
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
particulate matter from large vessels international or federal level. footprint. The cruise lines have a
through the use of low sulfur fuels or variety of environmentally innovative
other equivalencies. CLIA members In Alaska, for instance, legislation programs in place that go further
have not only tested cutting edge passed in 2006 set future wastewater than just responding to regulations
emissions reduction technology, rules for cruise ships that are among placed on our ships.
but have also been responsible for the most stringent worldwide and far
driving its development forward. exceed regulations placed on most Our commitment to meet and
This demonstrates our dedication shore-side municipal wastewater exceed requirements is exemplified
to reducing these emissions, and treatment facilities. by CLIA’s own Waste Management
through such actions, we are actively Practices and Procedures. In 2001,
working on methods to support the The cruise industry is no less CLIA lines adopted these practices
public health goals of the ECA and dedicated to meeting local and procedures with an eye toward
have been making progress toward requirements. In fact, the cruise lines identifying ways to go above and
this end. received a strong endorsement from beyond requirements. In fact,
the particularly environmentally they recommend procedures that
It is important to note that sensitive state of Alaska. In exceed those required under the
regardless of where a ship may be 2009, the Alaska Department U.S. Clean Water Act and MARPOL.
flagged, if it visits a U.S. port, it must of Environmental Conservation For instance, while international
comply with all applicable federal submitted a report to the legislature regulation allows for the discharge
regulations. that read, “Cruise vessels are of untreated blackwater (sewage)
environmentally aware, and have beyond 12 nm (nautical miles)
STATE & LOCAL sound environmental systems and from shore, our cruise ships treat
REGULATIONS operational practices in place to all blackwater prior to discharge
minimize environmental impacts.” wherever they sail worldwide.
The regulatory framework does The cruise lines have agreed to
not end at the national level since CLIA REQUIREMENTS incorporate all of the waste stream
individual states in the U.S. have standards into their legally required
also put in place their own rules In ways large and small, CLIA and enforceable Safety Management
governing the environment. In some member cruise lines have taken a Systems, which are inspected by port
instances, state measures go above number of actions not required by states such as the U.S. Coast Guard.
P AR T I : REGU L ATORY
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e REGU L ATORY F RAMEWOR K
14
F RAMEWOR K
15
CHAPTER 2
Classification Societies and Notations
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
to verify that ships comply with developed the Environmental
MARPOL and other statutory Protection (EP) Class Notation that comply with
instruments adopted by the IMO and has a number of core requirements
following ratification by its member and supplementary characters
MARPOL and
states. This verification covers
a wide range of environmental
that cover all major environmental
impacts, including the installation
other standards.
impacts, including oil pollution, and operation of ballast water
sewage, garbage, exhaust emissions, treatment systems; the treatment
ballast water and others. The of swimming pool water before
verification regime comprises initial it is discharged to the sea; the substances, which do not deplete
plan approval and on-board surveys, installation and operation of oily the ozone layer; antifouling coatings
as well as surveys held at periodic water separators with a discharge that are not harmful to marine
intervals to ensure compliance is standard that exceeds the IMO limits; organisms, and others.
maintained. the use of environmentally friendly
refrigerant gases and/or natural Many CLIA members further
demonstrate their commitment
through independent certification
of their environmental management
system (EMS) against ISO 14000:
2004, which represents best practice
both internationally and in the
U.S. The ISO 14001:2004 standard
is based upon the cornerstone
of demonstrating continual
improvement. Hence, cruise lines
are always looking for opportunities
to improve their ships’ performance
and thus reduce their environmental
impact. ISO 14001:2004 certification
provides regulators, customers and
16
other stakeholders with assurance Design notation. This recognizes that all aspects of the vessel’s impact
REGU L ATORY F RAMEWOR K
that the cruise line sector is running adjustments to the design of the ship on the environment including
a sound business by continuously have saved more than 10 percent in carbon emissions. It is awarded
proving their environmental energy consumption compared to a to those ships that have made a
credentials to the society. conventional ship of the same size. significant investment in design
solutions, onboard equipment
CLIA members have received Some CLIA members have applied and operational procedures that
numerous recognitions from for the “Green Ship Notation” from make an environmental impact,
classification societies. Italian class society, Registro Italiano including engine design and the
Navale (RINA). Twenty-one ships use of alternative fuels. One of
One of our members was the first have qualified from six different our members has taken up this
cruise operator to receive Bureau member lines. One operator’s entire challenge, receiving the notation
Veritas’ Six Golden Pearl Label, the fleet has the Italian class society’s for three of its ships.
highest notations and certifications Energy Saving Index, which helps
for Quality Health & Environment for cruise owners reduce the energy
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
REGU C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e WASTE MANAGEMENT
18
PART II:
Waste
Management
19
CHAPTER 3
Wastewater Management
WASTE MANAGEMENT
Wastewater management is a To illustrate the extent to which level of detail. The cruise industry
complex and vitally important these requirements affect a ship has gone beyond the rules and
element of cruise ship operations. and its crew, a piece of equipment regulations in its discharge
In some locales, blackwater (water that was developed to fulfill a procedures by adopting our own set
from toilets and medical facility requirement in one region may not of stringent wastewater practices.
drains) and graywater (water from be sufficient elsewhere. Imagine
cabin sinks and showers, laundry, if one state required different tail For example, while U.S. and
galleys and spas) discharge from lights on your car than another. international regulations permit the
cruise ships is regulated to a higher While it is possible to conform to discharge of untreated blackwater 12
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
standard than any other vessel and different speed limits with the nautical miles from shore, as a policy
most land-based facilities. In many same vehicle, it would be quite CLIA members have committed
areas of the world, the treated challenging and burdensome to to treat all blackwater prior to
wastewater discharged from a cruise stop at each border to change the discharge. All blackwater is treated
ship is cleaner than that discharged tail lights. Remarkably, however, our using equipment certified to meet
from municipal facilities. member cruise lines comply with all the standards for Type II Marine
applicable regulations. Sanitation Devices, which is a tool
On the international level, MARPOL approved by the U.S. Coast Guard
(International Convention for the CLIA’s Waste Management Practices for all vessels in U.S. ports, or using
Prevention of Pollution from Ships) and Procedures add even another an advanced wastewater purification
sets standards of compliance for
pollutants but the many layers
of regulation make this issue
increasingly complex. For instance,
many of the areas our ships visit
require different levels of effluent
water quality. Furthermore, these
requirements continue to evolve
and be updated. The U.S. has federal
standards that differ from MARPOL
but many states have enacted their
own standards.
system (AWPS, also referred to as Blackwater and graywater, which The resulting water is “clean,” and
an Advanced Wastewater Treatment is 98 percent of the total amount it goes from the flotation units to
WASTE MANAGEMENT
system, or AWT). of water used onboard, is mixed the polishing filter for final cleaning.
together in a tank, which then Lastly, it goes to the ultraviolet
CLIA’s Waste Management Practices proceeds into a filtering drum. disinfection units which kill any
and Procedures also state that At this point, the large solids are remaining bacteria and make the
treated blackwater will not be taken out. From there, it goes into water suitable for discharge. As
discharged within 4 nautical miles a bioreactor, a large mixing tank a final check, a monitor ensures
from land, and at speeds below complete with bacteria which that if there is any water exceeding
6 knots, unless processed by an consume the organic material. allowed limits, it will be automatically
AWPS. No matter what, any and These bacteria are the key as returned to the system for treatment
all discharge always takes place they consume a great deal of the rather than being discharged.
in accordance with local laws and biomass aided by the mixing in of
regulations, since there are some extra air. REGIONAL CHALLENGES
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
The cruise industry has gone beyond the rules and regulations
in its discharge procedures by adopting our own set of stringent
WASTE MANAGEMENT
wastewater practices.
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
However, the Baltic Sea presents a
different set of challenges. The sea
is suffering from eutrophication,
a process where high nutrient
concentrations lead to intense
algae growth and oxygen depletion.
The eutrophication is caused by
an overabundance of nutrients in
the water and is a result primarily
from agricultural runoff. Though
passenger ships are responsible for
less than 0.05 percent of nutrients
in the Baltic, the cruise industry is
doing all that it can to contribute to
an overall solution.
22
23
CHAPTER 4
Recycling
WASTE MANAGEMENT
For many of us, recycling has become
a part of everyday life; it is a simple
in place reminding passengers not to
throw anything into the sea.
CLIA’s own Waste
matter of separating trash and setting
it on the curb or dropping it at a local It is not, however, always easy to
Management
collection site. But for cruise ships it
is nowhere near as simple. Being a
regulate our passengers’ trash
and recycling habits while on
Practices and
floating resort community, everything
has to be stored on the ship until it
board. Yet we do all we can to
request our guests assist us with
Procedures, which
can be offloaded at suitable shore- recycling. Collection bins are placed
all members
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
side facilities, which are not always throughout the ship to encourage
available at every port of call. CLIA
members have adopted rigorous
passengers to separate waste into
glass/cans, plastic/paper and food.
have agreed to
programs both on our ships and
within company structures ashore, Discharging of wet garbage is done
incorporate into
to ensure we maintain the highest
standards and tackle waste disposal
by legally authorized garbage
handling companies. All garbage
their respective
in the most eco-friendly manner
possible. Ships must have dedicated
picked up is recorded in a record
book and its offloading is certified
legally-enforceable
storage facilities for such waste to
ensure there is no contamination of
by a MARPOL receipt. After careful
checking for paper and plastics, food
safety management
food storage and processing facilities. waste goes through a pulper and is
then discharged at sea well away
systems, covers the
CLIA’s own Waste Management
Practices and Procedures, which all
from shore.
disposal of certain
members have agreed to incorporate
into their respective legally-
wastes, including
enforceable safety management
systems, covers the disposal of
solid waste and
certain wastes, including solid waste
and hazardous waste. The onboard
hazardous waste.
environmental officer makes sure
that all staff are fully trained in the
organization of waste disposal.
RECYCLING
WASTE MANAGEMENT
All cruise lines are taking extensive accordance with international waste monitored, manifested and vendors
measures to recycle waste that is regulations well offshore. thoroughly vetted. Cruise lines have
generated on board their ships, taken additional steps to reduce
including water, glass and garbage, Since onshore recycling facilities hazardous waste streams.
and have installed the most vary from port to port, CLIA lines
advanced equipment on our ships inspect the facilities often to For example, lines are phasing-
with this end in mind. CLIA estimates make sure recycling takes place as out perchloroethylene (perc),
that in a given year our lines recycle contracted. the traditional chemical used in
roughly 80,000 tons, comprised dry cleaning, and housekeeping
largely of paper, plastic, aluminum Despite the limited storage space chemicals no longer use any
cans and glass. available, both recycling equipment form of phosphates. Photography
and systems are being constantly onboard is moving towards
On board a ship, recyclable developed with increasing success. digital, which lessens the need
material is separated by below For instance, one member line has for developing chemicals (silver)
deck equipment designed to handle a fleet wide average of offloading and printing materials such as
different waste products. For about 1.5 pounds of waste per person ink. Where developing chemicals
example, aluminum, such as cans, per day, whereas the average U.S. are still used, the waste is passed
is compacted into bricks, and once household produces 4-5 pounds of through silver recovery units and
onshore is sent for recycling. Plastics waste per person per day. then discharged ashore to certified
are also compacted and glass goes handlers as an industrial waste.
through crushers; they are then HAZARDOUS WASTE Finally, used lights and batteries
also sent to onshore recycling are landed for special recycling as
facilities. Paper and cardboard are All hazardous waste is landed in are photocopying and laser print
shredded and may be incinerated if accordance with local requirements. cartridges.
CLIA estimates that in a given year our lines recycle roughly 80,000
tons, comprised largely of paper, plastic, aluminum cans and glass.
25
CHAPTER 5
Waste oil
WASTE MANAGEMENT
Bilge water is the name given to
the oily water that collects in the
result is water with at least less than
5 ppm of oil, although this is more
Regulators require
ships’ bilges at the bottom of the often closer to 2 ppm. This water that discharged
hull. Waste oil is an incidental is then held in another tank to go
result of normal operation of through a further process before it is bilge water
various machinery, the engines and discharged.
lubricated seals. should contain
To ensure the water meets the
Regulators require that discharged requirement of being less than 15 less than 15
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
bilge water should contain less than ppm oil when it is discharged, “white
15 parts per million (ppm) of oil but boxes” have been fitted to monitor
parts per million
CLIA members are often able to
improve on that standard by cleaning
the content of oil in the water. A
three-way valve operates such that
(ppm) of oil but
the water closer to 2 ppm. in the event that the oil content
exceeds 15 ppm, the water will be
CLIA members
Bilge water treatment systems work automatically redirected back to the are often able
by pumping the oily water into a holding tank and recycled for further
tank where gravity separation leads cleaning. to improve on
to the oil being drained off the top.
It then moves into a holding tank to The “white box” also records the that standard by
be discharged ashore or incinerated. amount of water discharged, its
The remaining water goes through content, and the date and time of cleaning the water
the oily water separator. About 5 discharge. The oily water discharge
cubic meters (m3) of water an hour valve is locked closed when in port
closer to 2 ppm.
goes through the separator and the and only the environmental officer
26
WASTE MANAGEMENT C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e EMISSIONS
WASTE MANAGEMENT
REDUCTION
28
PART III:
Emissions
Reduction
29
CHAPTER 6
EMISSIONS REDUCTION
alternative fuels
The existence of international
meetings, such as the 2009
Copenhagen Summit, demonstrates
the increasing concern on the impact
that green house gas emissions can
have on climate change. With heads
of state from around the world
focused on emissions reduction, the
cruise industry must also be involved
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
in tackling this challenge.
TECHNOLOGICAL
ADVANCES
EMISSIONS REDUCTION
cruise industry’s carbon footprint.
ALTERNATIVE TYPES some of the issues with viscosity pushing boundaries of technology
FUEL and lubricity. CLIA members are and designing solutions as they go
continuing to invest substantial along.
Given the new regulations capping amounts of time and money in
the sulfur content of fuels in ECAs considering the options that present SOME SOLUTIONS
and European Union ports, ships will the safest and most effective PRESENT CHALLENGES
have to carry different grades of solutions.
fuel – sometimes as many as three However, as the previous example
types. While in the past ships have WIND TURBINES starts to show, not every innovative
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
been able to use heavy fuel oil (HFO), approach will work. One member
they will now be using low sulfur fuel In a constant search for looked into using biodiesel, a
oil or gasoil. This is likely to impact environmental solutions, one CLIA cleaner-burning diesel fuel made
storage arrangements for such fuels, member has tested two different from natural, renewable sources
and the possible need to switch from wind turbines on one of its ships. such as vegetable oils, and became
one to another when entering an It went well until the ship entered the world’s single largest end user
ECA or a specific port. inclement weather. With the ship of biodiesel in 2006 and 2007.
steaming 20 knots in one direction But, three years later it no longer
Experts have raised concerns over and the winds blowing 60 knots uses the fuel. The reason for this is
some properties of low sulfur in the other, success was limited. simple. Evidence began to emerge
fuels. First, data prepared by one Undaunted, they are looking at that the increased demand for
classification society indicates another option and will continue to biofuels was causing an increase
that some low sulfur marine gasoil do so as new technologies emerge. in prices for staples such as corn
and marine diesel oils are not in This is just one more example of and sugar. In addition, concerns
compliance with IMO engineering how this is a time of initiative and were being raised about increased
safety requirements. Second, the innovation. In many cases both deforestation in order to cultivate
risks of switching between HFO cruise lines and manufacturers are the crops for biodiesel production.
and low sulfur distillate fuels are
considered higher than between
HFO and low sulfur HFO fuel given
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e EMISSIONS REDUCTION
32
33
CHAPTER 7
Engines
EMISSIONS REDUCTION
With the IMO having set standards necessary for passengers and crew. emulsion, humid air motors and
to reduce emissions, CLIA members On the other hand, common rail exhaust gas recirculation.
have been working closely with engine systems control the amount
our executive partners and engine of fuel injected into the diesel engine While today’s engines meet the
manufacturers to develop engine to ensure maximum performance Environmental Protection Agency’s
technology that can meet these and reduced fuel consumption. In Tier I emission standards for
requirements. these systems, the pressure of the marine diesel engines as adopted
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
are an essential part of our effort to
minimize our carbon footprint and
energy consumption of cruise ships.
Newer engines may have numerous
benefits, including helping ships run
more fuel efficiently, meet emissions
standards, and power it with less
noise or vibration.
ENGINE TYPES
EFFICIENCY AND which feeds into a central electrical grid storage. For instance, to remain liquid
INNOVATION
EMISSIONS REDUCTION
and to generate electricity to power the LNG needs to be stored at minus 162
elevators. This solar power can be used Celsius. Thus, storage tanks would
Cruise lines, engine manufacturers to provide power to other systems, need to be well insulated, which in
and shipyards cooperate closely including lighting, therefore decreasing turn requires the availability of more
to develop solutions that not demand on the engines. The use of space on board. One promising way
only reduce energy consumption solar power on cruise ships will be to overcome this is to use duel fuel
at a time when conservation of discussed in more detail in chapter 14. options, by combining gas and diesel.
energy supplies is essential, but
also reduce emissions. This is a Other possible future options include Lastly, the use of fuel cell technology
constant challenge especially as the use of liquefied natural gas is an emerging technology that
the size and subsequent propulsion (LNG). Engine manufacturers have the industry is currently studying.
requirements of cruise ships begun to develop systems that use The potential emissions benefits
continue to increase. LNG as an alternative to heavy fuel are substantial since the fuel cell
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
oils. LNG has much to offer in terms converts the source fuel (natural
To this end, one of our members has of emission reduction but poses a gas) into electricity and water.
introduced solar power on its ships, number of roadblocks in terms of
EMISSIONS REDUCTION
Cruise ships serve as hotels for do have to meet air quality targets Third, there are significant cost
their guests whether the ships are and the cruise lines and ports are considerations that both the cruise
in transit or in port. Operationally, working together to find solutions lines and ports must take into account.
however, there is one key difference: which may include this option. Most new cruise ships are now built
ships need their own power system with the possibility of connecting to
to generate the electricity needed While it has obvious advantages, shoreside power but older ships have
for the hotel load. Thus, ships need there are a number of issues that to be retrofitted with the necessary
to run their engines and generators still need to be overcome before onboard receptors, at a cost of
to produce the necessary power. shore power is more widely used. between $1 million to $2 million. Even
so, until there are enough ports with
A new alternative that is emerging First, shore power should be shown connection facilities, this may not be
within the cruise ship industry is to be the best environmental solution the best solution. Also, the ports must
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
the ability to “plug in” while in port, at a specific port. In locations such weigh the value of spending millions
connecting the ship to shore-side as Juneau, Alaska, where there is an of dollars on facilities for ships that
power and shutting down its own abundance of hydroelectric power, typically come into port for only 10
engines, also known as “cold ironing.” it can be very environmentally hours per week, and often only for a
beneficial. However, the source for limited season of four to five months.
Once a cruise ship is “plugged in” at the shore power must be cleaner
port, shore power has the potential than what a ship would generate. In Fourth, there is the potential for huge
to reduce the overall emissions a ship some cases, the power source may be and intermittent surges on the power
would generate. Though it is still early less environmentally acceptable. Like grid to cause problems for local
in terms of its deployment at cruise most environmental issues, it is vital residents. In the Pacific Northwest
ports, our industry is supportive of to study the matter holistically. ports, such problems can usually be
the potential benefits of shore-based avoided as ships typically come in
power. The industry is engaged at Second, the industry is engaged on weekends when businesses are
the international level in discussions at the international level in generally closed and local power
regarding the adoption of a standard discussions regarding the adoption demand is lower. However, it is still
for cold-ironing connections and of a standard for cold-ironing something to keep in mind.
other technical elements, so that connections and other technical
every ship fitted for shore-based elements. While basic standards for Despite these challenges, projects
power could connect at any equipped voltage and connection of electric from as far afield as Venice to
port around the world. cables have been established in Gothenburg are under consideration
North and Latin American ports, in Europe. Ports, manufacturers and
A number of ports on the North in Europe the story is altogether cruise lines are all working together
American west coast are now a different one. For starters, the to find alternatives to diesel engines
equipped with the necessary facilities power generated ashore is 50 as a source of power when in port.
for ships to ‘plug-in’ when they are in cycle, unlike the cruise ships and
port. As of April 2010, five cruise ship North and Latin America where it As another avenue of innovation,
berths in North America featured is 60 cycle. This means a frequency manufacturers are looking at engines
this ability. The first port to make this converter is required which uses that can use either natural gas or
available was Juneau, Alaska, where more energy and requires more liquefied natural gas (LNG) while in
the hydroelectric power provides a space. Because cruise ships call on port which could be supplied by truck
clean source of energy. more than one port, and sometimes or a gas line at the dock where the
more than one berth at a specific connection would take place. This
Although the use of shore power is port, these issues raise serious addresses concerns over particulate
not mandatory at this time, ports logistical challenges. matter as well as reducing emissions.
36
Environmental Programs
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
12
EMISSIONS REDUCTION
15
16
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
14 10
9
7
4
13 11
2
8 3
14 High-efficiency appliances
16 LED lighting
ENERGY CONSUM P TION
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
38
AND REDUCTION
and
PART IV:
Energy
Consumpti o
Reduction
n
39
CHAPTER 9
Coatings
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
Paints and varnishes are also the ships’ hulls. We have been working additional protection, with resulting
target of recent IMO and European closely with paint manufacturers to reductions in energy use and carbon
Union regulations. The IMO’s Marine develop and apply environmentally dioxide emissions.
Environment Protection Committee friendly hull coatings that make ships’
(MEPC) agreed to guidelines for a hulls smoother. A smooth hull reduces These new generation paints provide
volatile organic compound (VOC) resistance as a ship moves through a myriad of environmental benefits
management plan. VOCs are found the water, resulting in a decrease but they also have benefits in
in paints and varnishes and are of energy consumption. Estimates reducing the amount of time ships
released to the atmosphere as are that these smooth hull coatings have to spend in dry dock. This can
the paint dries. In Europe, there reduce fuel consumption by as much significantly reduce costs. While
are regulations governing the as 5 percent. dry docking is mandatory under
environmental release of VOCs international regulations, ships can
found in paints. Similarly, there are Some organisms can become attached save time if the ship’s hull is still
also new IMO rules on the internal to ship hulls and can increase a ship’s relatively clean.
coating of ships’ ballast tanks to drag through the water, thereby
protect them against corrosion. increasing fuel consumption. This is Other advantages include the fact
known as hull fouling. According to a that less paint is necessary than with
The MEPC also agreed on guidance survey carried out for a major paint previous products. In addition, newer
regarding best practices for manufacturer, antifouling products are processes used to remove old paint
removing harmful tin-based paints on the increase. The product works by and dispose of it are of less potential
(TBTs) from ship hulls. Paints that preventing organisms from adhering damage to the environment and
contain TBTs are extremely toxic to the ship’s hull. The hull would present less of a hazard to shipyard
to marine life. CLIA members appear as liquid and therefore invisible workers employed to remove or
have already phased out TBTs in to them. Some paints are specially dispose of the paint.
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
reducing emissions. generated from the engines to involve the use of adsorption chillers
create fresh water for drinking, or to make chilled water from heat,
Even the most efficient engine will for heating areas of the ship, such and integrated bio-waste dryers,
produce some sort of waste energy. as passenger cabins. Additionally, which do not need additional energy
For instance, modern diesel-electric some of the water used to cool the for drying but uses the waste heat
engines produce upwards of 50 engines can be used in evaporators energy in the exhaust from the
percent waste energy that can be to distill fresh water for heating the incineration process.
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
since the majority of our member five identical chiller units. air around the ship. Engineers make
lines’ itineraries involve warm sure the duct work is correctly sized
environments, air conditioning In the past, chilled water was pumped and that there are minimal bends or
systems come under the most around the ship at all times. However in constrictions to make disbursing air
pressure. new ships, the systems are designed to more efficient.
pump only the amount of chilled water
In an air conditioning system, required for the cooling demand, which With fresh air being needed in public
chillers remove heat from a liquid; results in energy savings. spaces generally only to ensure
in this case it is water. This cold For example, on a 2,500 passenger passenger comfort, CLIA members
water is then distributed to coils cruise ship, chiller compressors have begun to utilize technology
In the past, chilled water was pumped around the ship at all times. In new
ships, the systems are designed to pump only the amount of chilled water
required for the cooling demand, which results in energy savings.
44
ENERGY CONSUM P TION
AND REDUCTION
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
that minimizes the amount of energy it is possible to reduce the overall and has the additional advantage of
used to cool a room when it is not consumption of HVAC systems protecting the vessel’s interiors and
occupied. For example some of our on one ship by between 3 and 4 furnishings.
ships have timers installed to switch percent. Translating this into energy
the air-conditioning off after the not used and fuel not burned means The industry continues to explore
final show in the theater. Other ships significant savings. ways to achieve additional
use carbon dioxide sensors to help reductions in HVAC system energy
determine the number of people in Some examples of how this can work usage. To this end, a chiller that uses
a room. When there are less people, include fitting sensors in cabins so no electricity and no refrigerant is
the control system will slow down that when the balcony doors are now being tested. Using waste heat
and stop pumping fresh air into the open, the amount of air-conditioning from the generators, the system will
space. being used is automatically produce enough chilled water to
reduced. Another way uses tinted manage part of the cooling load on
One supplier has come up with glass windows. These special the ship. It is estimated that this type
what is called an ‘energy saving coatings reduce the amount of heat of system, together with the ship’s
management plan’ for one of our transferred from outside into the overall energy saving management
cruise line members. By looking cabins and public rooms and hence scheme, should reduce consumption
at the whole system, how much the air-conditioning required to cool by about another 8 percent.
energy is used where and when, the rooms. The glazing still allows
it is possible to make savings in natural light to enter the ship, but
different places. It is estimated that filters out 99.9 percent of UV rays
45
CHAPTER 14
Solar panels
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
undoubtedly grow in the coming feed into the main electrical grid of
years, and CLIA members are proud the ship and power the elevators. The of supplementary
to play a leading role in investing in ship generates 65kW of power per
solar powered technology for the hour to do this, which is enough to
energy for ships.
shipping industry. power 12 elevators. This represents
the equivalent power of 7,000 LED
Solar power works by turning light lights.
and heat energy from the sun into
an electric current, which can then The cost of installing such
be harnessed for power. Because technology is quite substantial.
cruise ships spend so much time For instance, this investment can
under the bright sun, solar panels run upwards of $750,000 in solar
are a good source of supplementary power for a single ship. However,
energy for ships. For example, tiles the technology continues to evolve
can be fitted above a solarium and and as it does, current tiles can be
can then serve the dual purpose of replaced with new and improved
harnessing sunlight for power and models as they become available.
ENERGY CONSUM P TION
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e P ARTNERS HIPS
46
AND REDUCTION
PART V:
Partnerships
47
CHAPTER 15
Conservation International
P ARTNERS H I P S
In 2003, CLIA joined forces with 2003 CI report, A Shifting Tide: as expanded adoption of advanced
Conservation International (CI) to Environmental Challenges and wastewater treatment systems, and
establish the Ocean Conservation Cruise Industry Responses, found avoidance of wastewater discharges
and Tourism Alliance (OCTA) as that cruise lines’ environmental in coral reef areas and other
part of our strong commitment to management practices went beyond sensitive marine environments.
address how we can preserve the prevailing regulations. The report
waters on which we sail. The aim also identified opportunities for the In 2008, CLIA and CI signed a
is to minimize the cruise industry’s cruise industry to take a leadership three-year agreement to renew the
environmental footprint and to role in promoting sustainable OCTA Alliance. Under the renewed
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
maximize positive outcomes for tourism. partnership, CI provided CLIA with
nature conservation in key regions a set of maps highlighting sensitive
where the industry operates. In 2004, the OCTA Alliance marine habitats in the Caribbean
announced creation of an Basin. Additionally, CI conducted a
Under the terms of the alliance, independent Science Panel to comparative analysis of the OCTA
CI acts as an advisor to the evaluate cruise industry wastewater Science Panel recommendations and
industry on key environmental management practices. The seven- EPA regulations and assessment
and conservation efforts of joint member panel of marine science findings relevant to cruise industry
interest including wastewater experts was chaired by Dr. Sylvia wastewater management.
management, the ramifications Earle. The work of the OCTA Science
of climate change to the industry Panel culminated in 2006 with a In one of the first joint efforts
and destination stewardship. A set of recommended actions such between the cruise industry and
conservation organizations on is the 2006 CI report, From Ship to is vital yet challenging. Cozumel,
climate change policy, CLIA and CI Shore: Sustainable Stewardship in Mexico, is the world’s most visited
worked jointly in 2009 to develop a Cruise Destinations, which examined cruise destination and its coast is
white paper for submission to the the shared responsibilities among part of the Mesoamerican Barrier
59th Session of the International cruise lines, governments, civil Reef System, one of the world’s most
Maritime Organization’s Marine society, and shore operators to endangered reef systems.
Environment Protection manage the growth of tourism in
Committee. The paper set forth sensitive ecosystems. CI, Cozumel’s Department of
recommendations on market- Tourism and the Florida-Caribbean
based policies that would reduce An example of CI’s efforts with Cruise Association witnessed
greenhouse gas emissions while leading cruise lines and with other the culmination of a 12-month
promoting conservation of tropical key travel and leisure industries partnership in 2008 with the signing
forests and marine ecosystems. can be found in the Mesoamerican of a groundbreaking conservation
Reef Tourism Initiative (MARTI), a CI agreement by cruise industry
A growing priority for the partner effort founded to advocate leaders representing government,
OCTA Alliance is to ensure the for sustainable tourism planning private sector, civil society and
environmental quality and overall and development in Mexico, the cruise lines as part of MARTI.
sustainability of the cruise Caribbean, Belize and Honduras.
destinations that CLIA members By facilitating this agreement the
depend on for long-term business Striking a balance between tourism partners set in motion, for the first
success. A foundation for this work and conserving the environment time ever, a major environmental
49
P ARTNERS H I P S
initiative that will help preserve through concerted action by all As the program is developed, CI
some of the most endangered those involved. and CLIA are working to enhance
biodiversity on the planet living environmental awareness and
in the world’s most visited cruise Through a series of focus groups education of cruise ship passengers,
destination. and a multi-stakeholder workshop tour operators, service providers
that brought together more than 80 and the local community;
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
On peak days the island receives up cruise industry leaders to define high improve island management of
to nine cruise ships which can bring priority environmental issues related tourism infrastructure, including
more than 10,000 visitors in one to cruise calls and reach consensus improving island traffic and waste
day. Through shared responsibility, on collaborative actions, a number management; and foster increased
the impact of the industry can of lines of action emerged. The key is protection for Cozumel’s reef system
be managed and the destination in developing an action plan which is and promoting consistent application
preserved. The agreement provides a representation of the voice of the and enforcement of laws and
a framework to facilitate the people and presenting practical ways regulation.
sustainability of cruise tourism to tackle the issues.
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e P ARTNERS H I P S
50
51
P ARTNERS H I P S C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e
C L IA a t 3 5 : S t e e r i n g a S u s t a i n a b l e C o u r s e REGU L ATORY F RAMEWOR K
52