Climate implications of cruises
Climate relevant emissions are created by the fuel used on ships. Different types of fuel are used not only for propulsion but also for generating power on board. The combustion of fuels causes the release of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides and other gases, as well as fine dust.
Being a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) and the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), Hapag-Lloyd operates its Arctic and Antarctic trips in accordance with the rules of these organizations. For the protection of the polar seas TUI cruise liners use marine diesel oil instead of heavy fuel oil. Furthermore, they are urged to use marine diesel oil as fuel in other seas.
Hapag-Lloyd and TUI Cruises work on improving the environmental impact of cruises by employing efficient technologies and processes and raising awareness among crew and customers. For emissions that cannot be avoided Hapag-Lloyd offers their customers the opportunity to compensate emissions from their cruises. In cooperation with the German organization “atmosfair” a climate calculator has been developed. By considering certain aspects of a tour, e.g. cabin category and duration of cruise, the carbon footprint of a passenger can be determined.