Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International’s largest cruise ship, embarked on its inaugural voyage Saturday.
However, the environmental groups are concerned regarding potential methane emissions from the liquefied natural gas (LNG) it uses as fuel.
Royal Caribbean International asserted the Icon of the Seas is 24% more efficient in terms of carbon emissions than required by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Additionally, the company plans to adapt to changing market conditions by using different fuels as the industry evolves.
Icon of the Seas kicked off maiden sail from Miami with 8,000 passengers onboard across 20 decks.
While LNG burns more cleanly than traditional marine fuel, it poses a greater risk for methane leakage, which has short-term harmful effects on the climate.
The ship’s engines have low-pressure and dual-fuel design, with a methane slip issue. It contribute to atmospheric methane emissions during the combustion process.
Industry experts note that the engines used in cruise ships have a higher methane slip compared to those used in other types of ships.
“It’s a step in the wrong direction,” said Bryan Comer, director of the Marine Program at the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), an environmental policy think tank.
“We would estimate that using LNG as a marine fuel emits over 120% more life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions than marine gas oil,” he said.
In terms of warming effects, methane is 80 times worse over 20 years than carbon dioxide, making cutting those emissions key to holding down global temperature warming.
While LNG emits fewer greenhouse gases than very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO), concerns persist about its methane emissions.
The International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) estimates that using LNG as a marine fuel emits over 120% more life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions than marine gas oil, emphasizing the need to address methane emissions to mitigate global warming.
The LNG expected to power a significant portion of new ships amid continued expansion in cruise industry, the environmental impact of these vessels remains a focal point for regulatory bodies and advocacy organizations.
The industry is also exploring alternative fuels, such as bio-LNG, to reduce environmental impact. It is clear that the cruise industry must address methane emissions to ensure a sustainable and environmentally responsible future.
