The first measure that is being taken at a general level is responsible tourism in all ports. It's about raising awareness and educating the industry by looking for ways to travel that promote more authentic experiences....
1. Minimizing the negative impact on the environment by reducing the consumption of natural resources and reducing pollution,
2. Respecting the local culture and traditions of the destinations to which cruise ships travel.
3. Supporting the local economy through accommodation, choice of restaurants or purchases of local produce.
4. Participating in sustainable activities through excursions and activities that promote ecotourism.
5. Sustainable transportation by choosing less polluting means of transport or opting cycling outings.
The current reality is that most cruise ships are implementing all kinds of measures to promote sustainability by means of the following initiatives:
1. Sustainable technology and design of ships by investing in cleaner technology and fuels to make them more efficient.
2. Sewage and wastewater treatment and recycling programs.
3. Use of cleaner energy sources (Liquefied Natural Gas or electric power).
4. Support and joint work of the industry with local authorities and communities to develop sustainable tourism destinations.
5. Education programs on board ships to raise awareness among passengers.
6. Strict compliance with international regulations on waste and gas emissions.
In the Balearic Islands, the Ports are working on initiatives to improve environmental management and operational efficiency and in recent years the Shipping Companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the preservation of the destination by regulating cruise calls in the port of Palma for a better organization and management of services to cruise ships.
There is great concern about the situation in the Mediterranean due to the increase in temperatures, especially this year 2023, which has set a record in high temperatures reaching 31 degrees. The Posidonia marina in the Balearic Islands is crucial as it oxygenates the waters and is a refuge for fauna and flora. The Balearic Islands continues to be a pioneer in the protection of Posidonia through local legislation and the Balearic Government works to raise awareness and promote its conservation.
One of the biggest threats to Posidonia are the anchors of ships, nowadays, anchors are designed with materials and coatings that minimize corrosion and prevent the release of harmful substances. The materials used are galvanized or stainless steel and the coatings must be antifouling and comply with existing environmental regulations.
On the other hand, the nautical sector in the Balearic Islands is working with the Government to promote measures for the elimination of land-sea discharges through purification systems to improve water treatment in order to reduce discharges into the sea.
For all the initiatives and measures to be implemented in the cruise industry to make blue tourism a reality, there must be synergies and above all unconditional support from governments and port authorities so that we can speak of facts.
