Carnival Corporation has set a new target to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity by 25% by 2029, measured per available lower berth day (ALBD) against a 2019 baseline.

The world's largest cruise company had originally committed to a 20% reduction by 2030, but achieved that goal in 2025 — five years ahead of schedule. In response, Carnival has raised the target by five percentage points and moved the deadline forward by one year. The announcement comes as the maritime industry faces tightening regulatory pressure, including the EU's extension of its Emissions Trading System to maritime shipping in 2024 and the FuelEU Maritime regulation, which sets limits on the GHG intensity of marine fuels starting in 2025. The International Maritime Organization has also adopted a revised strategy targeting net-zero GHG emissions from international shipping by or around 2050.

According to the company, the fuel-efficiency initiatives behind the early milestone are on track to generate approximately $650 million in savings in 2026 alone compared to 2019 levels.

"Achieving our 2030 GHG reduction goal five years early is a significant milestone that reflects years of disciplined investment, innovation and operational focus across our global fleet," Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation, said in a statement. "Our new 2029 target ensures we're continuing to improve every part of the equation, from using less fuel to advancing the tools, technologies and infrastructure that will help us lower emissions even further over time."

The company has implemented a range of energy-saving measures across its fleet. Power Saver Packs — covering HVAC upgrades, LED lighting, and energy management systems — are now installed on approximately 80% of Carnival's ships and reduce annual shipboard energy demand by about 535,000 MWh compared to 2019.

Air lubrication systems fitted on 13 ships reduce propulsion energy requirements by approximately 5%, while Azipod propulsion systems on more than 40 ships can reduce fuel consumption by up to 10%, the company says.

Carnival's fleet renewal program has seen 27 older, less efficient vessels retired since 2019. The company currently operates 11 LNG-powered ships, which account for roughly 21% of total fleet capacity. Seven newbuilds scheduled for delivery through 2033 are expected to be more than 20% more efficient on a per-passenger basis than existing tonnage.

Shore power capability has been extended to 74% of the fleet. In 2025, Carnival ships connected to local electrical grids on approximately 1,460 port calls, contributing toward a target of 80% fleetwide shore power capability by 2030.

The company also reports growing use of biofuels across its fleet as supply becomes more available. Additionally, Carnival operates a 10 MWh battery energy storage system aboard AIDAprima, which it describes as the largest such system in the cruise industry.

Source: Ship & Bunker