SDG Impact Lab Fellows Amy Booth, Buntu Fanteso, and Isabelle Haynes, along with Visiting Fellow Sara Sampieri, recently toured P&O Cruises ship, Britannia, to explore its cutting-edge sustainability initiatives. Adopting advanced technologies to mitigate environmental impact, and establishing practices to promote positive social impact, Britannia, as well as other ships in the fleet and across Carnival Corporation & plc is setting new standards for sustainable tourism in the cruise industry. The insights gained here will play a crucial role in shaping work with the United Nations to develop the world’s first global environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework for tourism businesses. 

About Carnival Corporation & plc and Britannia

Part of Carnival Corporation & plc, P&O Cruises is Britain’s favourite cruise line and its flagship Britannia, one of seven ships in its fleet, offers memorable cruise holidays to many thousands of guests each year. Carnival Corporation & plc, founded in 1972, is a global leader in cruising, committed to environmental stewardship, innovation, and positive social impact. The company’s vision is to deliver unforgettable cruise experiences while championing innovative environmental stewardship and positive community impact.

Highlights from the visit to Britannia

Environmental Initiatives

During the visit, the team learned about Britannia’s comprehensive waste management system, including onboard recycling stations. Britannia recycles materials such as plastic at designated ports and has reduced its plastic use by 50% since 2018. The ship also engages the crew and guests in waste reduction campaigns, resulting in a significant reduction of waste onboard.

Water conservation is another key focus for Britannia. Where possible, the ship's operation does not source water from water-scarce destinations. Instead, guests are encouraged to conserve water, and Britannia produces approximately 88% of the water used on board from sea water using desalinisation and reverse osmosis equipment. Britannia’s wastewater management is guided by innovative technologies, including the LR OneOcean programme, which provides real-time monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental regulations for treating and releasing cleansed wastewater in permitted areas. 

On the energy front, Britannia utilises shore power where available, significantly reducing air emissions and noise while docked. However, when shore power is unavailable, it relies on fuel-efficient technologies in port and while cruising to maintain its energy needs. Cruise itineraries are planned to ensure the most efficient routes as well as guest satisfaction and enjoyment.

Diversity and Workforce Initiatives

Carnival Corporation’s workforce comes from over 150 countries, reflecting its commitment to diversity and inclusion. With initiatives aimed at supporting women officers and promoting gender equality, the company is helping to actively close the gender gap in the maritime industry. Moreover, employee-led networks, such as LGBTQ+ and gender rights groups, as well as cultural heritage and disability groups, are supported by executive leadership, promoting an inclusive working environment. There are also a range of recreational facilities for crew members, contributing to their overall well-being.

Community

The company recognises the importance of building strong relationships with the communities in which it operates. In addition to supporting economic development in the local destinations where they dock, P&O Cruises collaborates with local communities on coastal clean-ups and supports environmental research by sharing data with local NGOs, helping them identify trends to manage and mitigate waste in coastal areas. It is also key for guests to experience local cultures and heritage in their destinations.

Carnival Corporation & plc and Britannia exemplifies how modern tourism can balance luxury experiences with responsible practices – principles driving the development of the global ESG framework for tourism.