Carnival to meet GHG emissions goal

To meet this goal, the company and its 10 brand lines around the world have developed, and continue to develop, energy reduction and conservation initiatives, many of which exceed current laws and regulations.

“Carnival has already reduced its emissions by more than 19% since 2005 and we are likely to exceed our goal of 20% by 2015. This speaks to our commitment to constantly look for ways to raise the bar on environmental leadership and performance,” said Jim Van Langen, vice president of management systems.

As part of its air emission reduction initiatives announced in September 2013, Carnival has pioneered an “industry-first” effort to develop exhaust gas cleaning technology that removes pollutants from the exhaust gases at any operating condition of the ship – at sea, during manoeuvring and in port. The company is currently installing the systems in its fleet.

In addition, it also continues to voluntarily install Advanced Waste Water Treatment Systems, and work on research and development of potential installations on new and existing ships.

It has also installed vessel shore power systems on 20% of its fleet to connect to a port’s electrical grid, significantly reducing air emissions at ports that have shore power capabilities.

On top of this, fuel consumption on its fleet decreased by more than 5% from 2007 to 2013, it also recorded an 18% increase in non-hazardous waste recycled from ships to 2011 to 2012, and 100% of Carnival’s operating lines are certified in accordance with ISO 14001.

One of Carnival’s 10 brands, AIDA Cruises, will operate the world’s first cruise ships with the innovative Mitsubishi Air Lubrication Systems (MALS), which reduces drag and save propulsion power – projected to save 7% of operating power.

AIDA also recently teamed up with Becker Marine Systems to develop an LNG hybrid barge, reducing NOx emissions by up to 80% and CO2 emission by 30%.

“This new technology enables up to operate cruise ships with the lowest emissions and in the most eco-friendly manner to date,” added Mr Van Langen.