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The world's fourth largest cruise line to go 'carbon neutral' by 2020

MSC Cruises has announced its commitment to become the first global cruise line to go “carbon neutral”, and will begin offsetting all emissions by January 1 2020.

The Italian cruise line, which has a fleet of 17 ships, aims to achieve its goal through a mix of technological innovation and environmental projects.

In particular, MSC has pledged its support to the Blue Carbon Initiative, an environmental organisation dedicated to the preservation and restoration of coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, tidal marshes and sea grasses, all vitally important for mitigating climate change and all disappearing at an alarming rate.

But while the cruise line has plans in place to balance out the carbon emissions of its fleet, it is also seeking new ways to reduce the ships’ direct environmental impact.

The announcement came as MSC christened its newest ship, MSC Grandiosa, in Hamburg. This is the line’s most environmentally advanced vessel to date thanks to advanced innovations in emissions control that can reduce nitrogen oxide output by 90 per cent, and a water treatment system that can return wastewater to near drinking quality.

Like all MSC ships built since 2017, Grandiosa carries ship-to-shore power technology, allowing the ship to connect to a port’s power grid while at berth and thus reduce its emissions.

Other eco-friendly features include an optimised build and special anti-fouling hull paint, both of which limit drag and increase fuel efficiency, smart on-board technology to help regulate systems such as heating and air-conditioning, and special features to counter the hazardous impact of underwater radiated noise (URN) on marine life.

Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises, said: “As we recognise that today’s advanced maritime environmental technology alone is insufficient to immediately reach carbon neutrality, the further commitment we make today ensures that our fleet makes no negative contribution to climate change, starting January 1 2020.

“We are a company with over 300 years of maritime heritage and a historical focus on the long-term that is especially typical of family-owned businesses like ours. For us, this is another step forward in our long-standing commitment to protecting the oceans, the destinations we visit and the port communities we touch.

“Yet another step will be taken in 2022 when the company launches its next ship, MSC Europa, which will be the line’s first ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), a much cleaner and far more efficient fuel.”