The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has imposed a fine of ~US$475,000 on RCI-Royal Caribbean International for failing to properly report alleged waste management and handling practices. The fine follows an inspection in Galveston (Texas USA) where the agency found that waste was allegedly offloaded from 8 of the cruise line’s ships at Pier 10. The EPA later determined that between July 2019 and July 2024, the company had brought both solid and hazardous waste into the United States.
According to the EPA, Royal Caribbean failed to meet several regulatory obligations under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). These included not updating its RCRA 3010 notifications, failing to file accurate biennial reports, and not maintaining adequate records of hazardous waste determinations. Additionally, the company did not comply with land disposal restrictions for incinerator ash and failed to meet the requirements of a large quantity hazardous waste generator.
The EPA acknowledged that Royal Caribbean cooperated during the settlement process. The cruise line's parent company, Royal Caribbean Group, issued a statement noting that the issues raised involved documentation errors rather than environmental harm. The company emphasized its ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, stating that it strives to maintain best-in-class environmental and waste management practices that exceed legal standards.
As part of the settlement, Royal Caribbean is required to maintain proper records of waste offloaded from its ships and ensure that the quantity of hazardous waste removed from domestic ports is accurately documented. The company must also ensure that waste is separated in compliance with RCRA regulations. The EPA also noted that Royal Caribbean will update its Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and submit them for review by EPA Region 6. Additionally, the settlement includes stipulated penalties to ensure the company’s compliance within the required 180-day period.
EPA Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance highlighted that the settlement emphasizes the agency's commitment to ensuring that companies adhere to RCRA regulations, which are designed to protect natural resources and public health from the risks posed by hazardous waste.