The world's second-largest cruise shipowner RCG-Royal Caribbean Group is implementing advanced technology on its cruise ships to improve waste management and prioritize environmental responsibility. The company plans to introduce waste-to-energy systems, reduce food waste, and expand its network of green hubs to offer environmentally sustainable vacation experiences.
RCG will introduce waste-to-energy systems, food waste reduction initiatives, and an extended network of green hubs to demonstrate its dedication to responsible vacation experiences. The newest ships, Icon of the Seas and Silver Nova will be the industry's first to have systems that directly convert solid waste into energy.
Jason Liberty (RCG's President and CEO) expressed pride in the company's commitment to envisioning a sustainable future. He stated that the waste-to-energy system on a cruise ship aligns with their goal of removing waste from local landfills and providing responsible vacation experiences.
The waste-to-energy systems, known as microwave-assisted pyrolysis (MAP) and micro auto gasification (MAG), will convert waste materials into syngas for onboard energy. These systems promote efficient waste management practices and produce biochar, a soil nutrient byproduct.
RCG aims to reduce food waste by 50% across its fleet by 2025. They have implemented initiatives such as a proprietary platform to monitor food supply, real-time food production adjustments using artificial intelligence (AI), onboard food waste professionals, and optimization of menu preparation and ordering based on guest demand. They have already reduced food waste by 24% by addressing factors like inventory management and over-preparation.
In addition to waste management, RCG plans to expand its Green Hubs program, which diverts waste from landfills. Through partnerships with waste vendors in strategic locations, the program has achieved a 92% diversion rate, reducing the company's waste footprint. Ecuador's Galapagos Islands recently joined the program, and Silversea became the first to receive environmental management certification by diverting all waste from the region's landfills.
With these initiatives and a commitment to sustainability, Royal Caribbean Group aims to establish new waste management standards in the cruise industry and contribute to a greener future.