Carnival Corporation Advances Sustainability Goals Ahead of Schedule
Carnival Corporation has announced significant progress towards its sustainability targets, positioning itself to achieve one of its key goals ahead of schedule.
The cruise giant anticipates an 18 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emission intensity on a lower berth capacity basis by 2024, compared to 2019 levels. Furthermore, Carnival Corporation projects a remarkable 42 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emission intensity by the end of this year, compared to its 2008 baseline. Surpassing the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) target of a 40 percent reduction by 2030, Carnival Corporation’s accelerated timeline demonstrates its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Originally aiming for a 20 percent reduction by 2030, Carnival Corp. revised its strategy last year, striving to achieve this milestone by 2026.
The company’s diverse portfolio of cruise lines has implemented various initiatives to minimize emissions. These include enhancing energy efficiencies through modern HVAC systems, optimizing hull designs, utilizing special coatings to reduce drag, and adopting energy-efficient itineraries. Moreover, shoreside electric power usage has been maximized whenever feasible.
Advanced LED and smart-lighting technologies, along with air lubrication systems, have been deployed to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce friction during voyages. Carnival Corp. vessels also leverage energy-efficient navigation techniques such as weather routing and ocean currents.
In a bid to transition towards lower-emission fuels, Carnival Corp. has invested in liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion systems for nine vessels, with two more LNG-capable ships on order. LNG usage not only slashes direct carbon emissions by up to 20 percent but also eliminates sulfur dioxides and reduces particulate and nitrogen oxide emissions.
Exploring alternative energy sources, Carnival Corp. is experimenting with biofuels, lithium-ion battery storage, and hydrogen-powered fuel cells. Additionally, the company employs exhaust scrubbing systems to remove pollutants, contributing to cleaner emissions.
With a long-term vision of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, Carnival Corporation has already reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 10 percent since its peak in 2011, despite a 30 percent increase in capacity.
In another environmental win, Carnival Corp. revealed a significant 38 percent reduction in food waste per passenger between 2019 and 2023, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and responsible stewardship of the oceans.