Marella Cruises, in collaboration with Cleaner Seas Group, is set to implement microfibre filtration systems across its 5-ship fleet by September 2025. This initiative follows a successful 6-month trial on the Marella Explorer, where INDIKON Marine filters achieved a 99% microfibre capture rate.
The trial, initiated in May 2024, involved the installation of two INDIKON Marine filters on the Marella Explorer's crew laundry system. Subsequent analysis indicated that these filters effectively captured 99% of microfibres present in the laundry wastewater.
Based on these findings, Marella Cruises anticipates that each ship will capture ~500 kilograms of microfibre pollution annually. The fleet-wide installation of INDIKON filters is expected to significantly reduce microfibre discharge, thereby supporting marine ecosystem preservation.
This initiative aligns with broader industry efforts to mitigate microplastic pollution from laundry wastewater, a significant contributor to oceanic microplastics. The proactive measures undertaken by Marella Cruises and Cleaner Seas Group exemplify a commitment to environmental stewardship within the maritime sector.