Happy Earth Day 2017 April 22nd
How Green are Cruise Ships?
Cruise ships operate in every ocean
worldwide taking thousands of passengers to all parts of the globe.
There is growing concern that these floating resorts are polluting the
waterways and air with all the waste that is generated by normal
operations.
Polluted discharges (of sewage, grey water and oily bilge water) and air
emissions are the chief sources of problems, but they also mark the
biggest potential areas for improvement.
Cruise Ship Environmental Report Card
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| click to enlarge images click here for report |
Friends of the Earth’s annual Cruise Report Card
compares the environmental footprint of 17 major cruise lines and 171 cruise ships. View a PDF of the latest annual report card here.
Disney Cruise Lines was the sole cruise line this year to earn an “A” for transparency by responding to information requests. Every other line, like the year before, refused to confirm its current environmental technologies, resulting in failing grades for transparency. Read the press release.
Disney Cruise Lines was the sole cruise line this year to earn an “A” for transparency by responding to information requests. Every other line, like the year before, refused to confirm its current environmental technologies, resulting in failing grades for transparency. Read the press release.
Protect the Environment for Future Generations
Most people that love to cruise also have an interest in protecting the environment for the future. We want to continue our quest to see more of the world, but at the same time, want to make sure Mother Earth is around for generations to come. So, what can we as individuals do?
For those that are interested in doing your part (click the following links): See #EarthDayEveryDay on EPA website. Learn more about the FOE.
Is There Any Good News in the Report Card?
I have to admit that my initial reaction to the report card was one of shock. The majority of the cruise lines have announced initiatives to protect the environment. You'll see signs posted in your cabin encouraging you to reuse towels, just like you see in hotel rooms on land. I have to give them the benefit of the doubt that they do intend to turn things around.
You be the judge - read about the various cruise lines' environmental initiatives. Also form your own opinion while on your next cruise vacation. We'd love to hear your feedback. Together we can have a Happy Earth Day.
When on a cruise ship, do your part by doing the little things: reuse
your towel, don't throw anything overboard, or pollute in any other
way.
We share this information, not to make any
cruise line look bad, but rather to call awareness to a growing problem
which can seriously impact all living things if left unchecked. Thank
you for reading this article and for doing your part to protect the
environment.
Special thanks to the EPA and FOE for their efforts and for publishing the information which was the basis of this article.
Cruise Line Sustainability Links
Here are links to the major contemporary cruise lines. Search out your favorite cruise lines' environmental initiatives documentation. If you don't find it, ask them why they aren't being transparent.
Carnival Corporation 2020 Sustainability Report InfoGraphic
Celebrity Cruise Line Environmental Initiatives
Disney Cruise Line Environmental Overview
Behind the Waves: DCL’s Commitment to Recycling (Video)
Royal Caribbean and the Environment
If you have followed our blog, you know that we began our love for cruising and the oceans over 30 years ago. That love turned into a profession, which we share with all of you. We are sharing this information as a wake up call to ourselves, and everyone that enjoys cruising and the destinations we visit. Let's encourage the cruise line executives and those who travel to protect the future.
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