Several Green Marine participants are highlighted as sustainable cruise ports
The Cruise & Ferry Review (CFR) cited five Green Marine certified ports on its 2021 list of 20 sustainable cruise ports globally.
In the United States, CFR noted that Port Canaveral has invested significantly in stormwater and other environmental improvements to ensure water quality and habitat protection. The Port of San Diego also made the list for relating its progress helping new ocean-related enterprises go from pilot project to commercial success with measurable environmental social and financial benefits. The port outlined the progress in the 2nd edition of its Blue Economy Incubator Highlights Report issued this past January.
Within Canada, the Port of Montreal was cited for its new cruise facilities designed with sustainability in mind. The main cruise terminal’s large green roof is home to more than 20,000 flowering and aromatic plants. Shore power has prevented upwards of 1,350 tonnes of greenhouse gas (GHG) from being emitted from visiting cruise liners since 2019.
The Great Victoria Harbour Authority is also mentioned for further expanding its shore power at the Victoria Cruise Terminal. The installation within two berths at Pier B is expected to reduce more than 46% of the GHG and criteria air contaminants (CAC) where 75% of all the port’s cruise ships are welcomed.
Finally, Port Saint John helped to prevent 2,700 pounds (1,224 kilograms) of rope from entering the ocean through the Debris Free Fundy initiative. Port Saint John is also working with the Eastern Charlotte Waterways to gain a better understanding of underwater noise impacts on marine life, as well collaborating on projects with the Atlantic Coastal Action Program. Another partnership involves helping Fisheries and Oceans Canada to keep a count of the endangered Atlantic salmon that pass through the port harbour.
Image from Port Canaveral