Cruise ships in Europe emitted four times more harmful sulphuric gases into the atmosphere than passenger vehicles did, highlighting a decline in air quality despite emissions limits and industry green initiatives. According to a report by climate lobby group Transport & Environment, the 218 cruise vessels operating in Europe last year emitted a total of 509 tonnes of sulphur oxides, compared to 465 tonnes in 2019. Although a cap on sulphur content in marine fuels has helped reduce emissions per tonne of fuel consumed, the addition of more cruise ships to fleets has led to an overall increase in emissions. Barcelona is the most affected port city in Europe, with cruise ships resulting in the release of 18 tonnes of sulphur oxides into the atmosphere.
The report also reveals an 18% increase in nitrous oxides emissions and a 25% increase in PM2.5 particulate matter emissions since 2019, both of which are linked to respiratory diseases. Constance Dijkstra, a shipping campaigner at Transport & Environment, expressed concern that major European port cities are once again suffering from toxic air pollution caused by cruise ships. She also warned against solutions that might improve air pollution but prove disastrous for biodiversity and climate change.
Although cruise ships account for a small portion of emissions compared to the wider shipping industry, the sector has faced criticism from regulators, politicians, and activists demanding environmental improvements. Some European port cities have imposed restrictions, and Venice, for example, banned cruise ships exceeding 25,000 tonnes to maintain its UNESCO world heritage site status, resulting in an 80% decrease in sulphur oxide emissions. In Barcelona, the outgoing mayor and potential successor candidates have expressed a need to reform cruise tourism to minimize harm to the city.
Cruise companies claim to be committed to improving their sustainability, with investments in emissions controls and shoreside charging technology. However, the industry’s efforts have been criticized as “abysmal” by Bryan Comer of the International Council on Clean Transportation’s marine program. The increased use of scrubbers to comply with the sulphur cap has led to higher particulate matter emissions, and Transport & Environment has called for a ban on scrubbers in certain ports to be extended to all European waters. Campaigner Dijkstra raised concerns about the industry’s focus on liquefied natural gas as a fuel alternative, highlighting the leakage of unburned methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Instead, Comer suggests investing in new technologies like hydrogen.
Overall, the report underscores the need for the cruise industry to address emissions and air pollution, especially in major European port cities. It emphasizes the importance of finding sustainable fuel alternatives and implementing stricter regulations to minimize environmental impact.
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