Royal Caribbean has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to sustainability within the cruise industry, actively implementing initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint and promote responsible tourism. Below, we explore five key sustainability practices that Royal Caribbean employs to ensure that their operations contribute to a more sustainable future.
This post was originally written and posted on the Royal Caribbean Blog on April 21, 2023
5 Ways Royal Caribbean Practices Sustainability
From conserving engine heat to reducing single-use plastics, Royal Caribbean integrates sustainability into many aspects of its operations. These efforts, which include energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and sustainable sourcing, are designed to protect the environment while providing guests with a memorable and responsible travel experience.
Energy Conservation
Royal Caribbean takes innovative approaches to energy conservation. Their ships use energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and air lubrication systems that allow ships to “float on air,” minimizing energy usage. Their new ship, Icon of the Seas, which sets sail in January 2024, will be the company’s most sustainable vessel, equipped to plug into shore power and further reduce emissions when docked.ed to protect the environment while providing guests with a memorable and responsible travel experience.
Water Conservation
Royal Caribbean implements creative water-saving initiatives. Using desalination and reverse osmosis systems, their ships can produce up to 90% of the freshwater used onboard. This water is essential for drinking, bathing, and operating water attractions like the largest waterpark at sea. Additionally, air conditioning condensation is repurposed for laundry, and the landscaping at Perfect Day at CocoCay uses recycled water from their waterpark.
Waste Management
Waste management is another area where Royal Caribbean excels. Their ships are designed to be landfill-free, thanks to partnerships with vendors like Green Hub. Approximately 85% of onboard waste is recycled or repurposed. They’ve also reduced single-use plastics by 60%, and their Win on Waste project uses technology to reduce food waste by 24%.
Sustainable Sourcing
Royal Caribbean has committed to sustainable sourcing, especially when it comes to seafood. The company sources 90% of wild-caught seafood and 75% of farmed seafood from suppliers certified by the Marine Stewardship Council and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council. This approach helps protect marine ecosystems while ensuring guests enjoy high-quality, sustainably sourced meals.
Sustainable Tourism
Royal Caribbean offers more than 3,500 shore excursions certified by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). These excursions aim to provide unique travel experiences while respecting local cultures and protecting natural environments. Sustainable tourism practices ensure that destinations remain vibrant and environmentally protected for future generations.
True Grade’s stands on Sustainability Practices
At True Grade, we remain deeply committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing, and we fully support Royal Caribbean’s sustainability initiatives. Moreover, their efforts to reduce environmental impact through energy conservation, water management, and waste reduction align perfectly with our values. In addition, Royal Caribbean’s dedication to sourcing sustainably caught seafood and promoting responsible tourism reflects the same principles we prioritize. These principles guide both our supply chain and product offerings.
As a company focused on ethical practices and transparency, we firmly believe initiatives like Royal Caribbean’s are essential. Furthermore, their commitment to innovative solutions, such as landfill-free operations and reducing single-use plastics, mirrors our approach. We continuously work to minimize waste and foster sustainability in every aspect of our business.
True Grade proudly partners with companies that prioritize sustainability, and we applaud Royal Caribbean’s leadership in this area. By promoting responsible tourism and environmental stewardship, they are setting a standard for the cruise industry. Ultimately, we are honored to stand with them in this shared mission toward a more sustainable and ethical future.
