Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas, currently the world’s largest cruise ship, will set out on its maiden voyage Saturday, beginning in Miami. But along with the fanfare related to its size come concerns from environmental groups about potential methane emissions.
The ship is fueled by liquefied natural gas, which has a greater risk for methane emissions although it burns more cleanly than conventional marine fuel. Where carbon emissions are concerned, Royal Caribbean says the ship is 24% more efficient than required by the International Maritime Organization. However, methane is significantly worse than carbon dioxide in terms of warming effects over time.
Bryan Comer of the International Council on Clean Transportation said the think tank estimates “using LNG as a marine fuel emits over 120% more life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions than marine gas oil.”
Royal Caribbean plans to incorporate different fuels in its strategy, and LNG is just “one piece,” said Nick Rose, vice president of environmental, social and governance.
