Royal Caribbean launces initiative for net zero emissions by 2050

Namely, “Destination Net Zero” is the name of the new program that the company is calling its collective effort. There are four primary objectives in its pledge to pursue science-based targets:

• Modernization of the cruise company’s global brands fleet through the introduction of 13 new energy-efficient and alternatively fueled vessels.
• Continued investment in energy efficiency programs for its fleet, including energy saving technologies, enhanced data systems and digitalization.
• Development of alternative fuel and alternative power solutions.
• Optimized deployment and integration of strategic shore-based supply chains.

We are announcing the most important destination of all in our company’s history – Destination Net Zero – an ambitious strategy to cut emissions, protect our oceans, and ensure the viability of the hundreds of destinations that our guests and crew members care deeply about

said Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Richard Fain.

In order to achieve these goals, in a period of 18 to 24 months, Royal Caribbean Group will develop targets to be validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The work will begin after the publication of SBTi’s marine transport methodology.

The company will also set key milestones to ensure they are making progress, one of which will be the delivery of a net zero cruise ship by 2035.

Thanks to optimized hull design and system upgrades such as AC chillers utilizing 30-40% less energy, Royal Caribbean Group has consistently delivered a new generation of ships 20-25% more efficient than their predecessors

the company stated.

To reach their goal of net zero emissions, Royal Caribbean Group will pull a lot of levers, including a few already announced.

More specifically, SilverSea Cruises will launch the first hybrid-powered ship set to debut summer 2023, and a wind farm in Kansas will offset up to 12% of the company’s scope 1 and 2 emissions per year.