The cruise company reduced its carbon intensity by 29.1 percent in 2023, surpassing its 2020 goal
Carnival Corporation, the world’s largest cruise company, announced that it achieved its greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets ahead of schedule, according to its 2023 sustainability report. The company reduced its carbon intensity by 29.1 percent in 2023, surpassing its 2020 goal of 25 percent. The company also reduced its absolute GHG emissions by 1.5 million metric tons, or 18.3 percent, from 2015 to 2023.
The company attributed its success to its various initiatives and investments in energy efficiency, fuel optimization, and alternative fuels. The company has implemented advanced air quality systems, which reduce sulfur oxide emissions by more than 90 percent, and nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 80 percent. The company has also installed shore power capabilities, which allow ships to connect to the local electric grid and reduce emissions while in port. The company has also ordered 11 new ships that will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is the cleanest burning fossil fuel.
The company is committed to further reducing its environmental impact and enhancing its social responsibility
The company stated that it is committed to further reducing its environmental impact and enhancing its social responsibility, as part of its vision to be the most trusted and innovative travel company in the world. The company has set new GHG reduction targets for 2030, which are aligned with the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The company aims to reduce its carbon intensity by 40 percent from 2008 to 2030, and to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
The company also highlighted its other sustainability achievements and initiatives in its 2023 report, such as:
- Reducing its water consumption by 4.8 percent from 2015 to 2023, and increasing its water reuse by 13.2 percent.
- Increasing its waste recycling rate by 6.4 percent from 2015 to 2023, and diverting 36.9 percent of its waste from landfills.
- Investing in community development and social welfare projects in its destinations, such as supporting education, health, and environmental programs.
- Enhancing its health and safety protocols and standards, especially in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, and ensuring the well-being of its guests and crew members.
- Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce and leadership, and fostering a culture of respect and dignity for all.
The company is optimistic about the future of the cruise industry and its role in sustainable tourism
The company expressed its optimism about the future of the cruise industry and its role in sustainable tourism, despite the challenges and uncertainties posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. The company stated that it is confident in the resilience and the recovery of the industry, as well as the pent-up demand and the loyalty of its customers. The company also stated that it is determined to continue to provide memorable and enjoyable experiences for its guests, while minimizing its environmental footprint and maximizing its social impact.
The company also thanked its stakeholders, including its guests, crew members, employees, investors, suppliers, partners, regulators, and communities, for their support and collaboration in its sustainability journey. The company stated that it is proud of its achievements and progress, and that it is looking forward to further advancing its sustainability performance and leadership in the years to come.
