AIDA Cruises to trial fuel cells

The trial will take place in cooperation with Meyer Werft within the scope of the 'Pa-X-ell 2' project promoted by Germany's Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure.

In other news detailed in the company's sustainability report, Germany's leading cruise line predicts that by 2023, 94% of all AIDA passengers will be sailing on ships that can be fully operated with low-emission liquefied natural gas or, in port, using green shore power.

Aiming for carbon-neutral cruising

'We are committed to both the Paris climate targets and those of the International Maritime Organization, and our long-term goal is emission-neutral cruising,' AIDA President Felix Eichhorn said.

An important milestone on AIDA's road to a green future was the inauguration of AIDAnova last December. The ship is receiving an LNG supply at Barcelona every 14 days. Another two LNG-driven newbuildings are due for delivery in 2021 and 2023.

AIDA also will adapt all of its ships built from 2000 — that is, 12 — for shore power connection. As well, the line is exploring the possibility of CO2-free production of liquefied gas from renewable sources.

Decrease in direct CO2 emissions

According to AIDA's sustainability report, direct CO2 emissions per passenger day have decreased from 61.7 kilograms in 2016 to 59.8 kilograms last year. Emissions fell by 2.38% from 2017 to 2018.

At the same time, the line stepped up its use of low-sulphur fuels. In 2018, 1,615,080 gigajoules of energy were produced from the use of low sulphur fuel, up from 808,240 gigajoules two years before. For the first time, AIDA also used ultra-low sulphur fuel last year.

Plastic and food waste reduction

Reducing plastic and food waste are two important goals. Disposable cutlery and cocktail stirrers have been replaced with wood products. Items served with coffee, such as cookies, now come without wrapping.

As far as food waste reduction is concerned, a buffet runner system implemented in 2016 has achieved very positive results. Restaurant staff use their mobile device to place orders directly with the main galley. The food is then prepared and delivered in the specifically required quantity.

AIDA has extended this practice to the crew restaurants, as well.

The 'AIDA Cares 2019' sustainability report can be downloaded here.