By
Rebecca Gibson |
Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) Cruise Line Members are investing US$1 billion in environmental technology to reduce the impact of their ships on the environment.
Many cruise lines are implementing exhaust gas cleaning systems (known as scrubbers) to reduce the level of sulphur oxides in a ship’s exhaust gas by up to 98%, as well as advanced wastewater treatment systems to treat wastewater beyond the requirements of most waste treatment facilities of coastal cities.
To improve fuel efficiency, some operators are installing solar panels so they can use the energy to power certain onboard equipment, rather than depending on fuel-generated electricity. Other CLIA Cruise Line Members are equipping their ships with new heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, which are designed to pump only the amount of chilled water required for the cooling demand to save energy.
Seven lines have also revealed plans to build up to 16 LNG-propelled cruise ships, with the first one expected in service in 2019. Using LNG fuel eliminates soot particles and sulphur oxides to reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Other newly launched vessels have dual-fuel engines, which allow for the efficient and effective use of multiple fuels, such as LNG and traditional fuel oils.
“The cruise industry recognises the importance of investing in innovative ship technology to preserve our environment and provide an eco-friendly travel experience,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO of CLIA. “And, with each newbuild, CLIA Cruise Line Members raise the bar for developing environmentally friendly ships.”