Royal Caribbean Group Rolls Out "Destination Net Zero"

Anonymous (not verified)
31 October 2021 5:18pm
Destination Net Zero

Royal Caribbean Group has announced a giant step on its sustainability journey: Destination Net Zero, a comprehensive decarbonization strategy that includes pledging to establish Science-Based Targets (SBT) and achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

"Decades ago, we set out on a course to advance sustainability; our vision now is to realize carbon-free cruising over the next two decades," said Richard Fain, chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. "Today 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."

Royal Caribbean Group's Destination Net Zero builds on decades of progress and a deep sense of responsibility to embed sustainability throughout the organization.

Destination Net Zero

 

Over 18 to 24 months, the cruise company will develop goals to be validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), the first such pledge for the cruise industry. The work will begin following the publication of SBTi's marine transport methodology. Science-based targets show companies how much, and how quickly, they need to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to help limit global warming.

Along the journey to net zero, key milestones will be critical to making progress. One of the most ambitious milestones includes the delivery of a net zero cruise ship by 2035. To achieve these ambitions, the company will rely on strong partnerships with governments, suppliers and shipyards to develop alternative and accessible fuels and technology.

The company's focus on achieving these measurable goals builds on its track record of designing and operating some of the most energy efficient ships on the seas. 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. 

From Silversea Cruises' 'Project Evolution' – the cruise industry's first hybrid-powered ship set to debut summer 2023 – to the wind farm in Kansas that will offset up to 12% of our scope 1 and 2 emissions per year, Royal Caribbean Group is already executing on its Destination Net Zero strategy to drive the development of emissions-reducing technology and alternative fuel solutions.

Destination Net Zero's four-pronged approach includes:

Modernization of our global brands fleet through the introduction of 13 new energy-efficient and alternatively fueled vessels, including its recently announced 'Project Evolution' — the industry's first ship to remove all local emissions while at port.

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.

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