MSC Cruises announced an ambitious plan to eliminate single-use plastics from the entire fleet as well as introduce sustainable alternatives.
By the end of March next year, the cruise line will phase out plastic items like shopping bags, glasses, stirrers and spoons, from its cruise ship operations and ashore as well as source environmentally-friendly replacements.
MSC Plastics Reduction Program will see plastic straws replaced with 100% compostable and biodegradable substitutes by the end of 2018.
In addition, drinks will no longer be served with a straw, which is a measure that could see the consumption of straws reduce by 50%.
A company spokesperson revealed that the company had studied all items onboard its ships to see how it could modify the way food is served and reduce single-use consumption.
MSC Cruises is working with local and international suppliers to find eco-friendly alternatives made of 100% biodegradable resins, consisting of renewable resources such as corn or sugar-based polylactic acid, paper, bamboo, or other organic materials.
Talks with suppliers at all levels in supply chain are ongoing to remove single-use plastics in packaging and products wherever possible.