As the cruise industry bounces back post-pandemic, cities that host major cruise ports are once again facing an inconvenient truth: while cruise ships docked in port may look idle, their environmental impact is anything but.
These floating resorts continue running their engines to power onboard amenities, a process known as “hoteling”, which releases harmful pollutants into the air, often in densely populated coastal areas.
The good news? Port authorities, city governments, and cruise lines themselves are increasingly stepping up with ambitious plans to clean up this dirty secret of tourism.
The Problem: Engines Running, Pollution Rising
Cruise ships rely on diesel engines or auxiliary generators to maintain power while in port, emitting nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), particulate matter (PM), and carbon dioxide (CO₂). These pollutants contribute to smog, acid rain, and respiratory illnesses. According to recent studies, a single docked cruise ship can emit as much air pollution as thousands of cars per day, directly into city centres.
This pollution burden is especially significant in Europe’s busiest cruise hubs, many of which lie in historic and compact urban environments.
The Response: Shore Power, Fuel Alternatives and Regulation
In response to growing concern, the European Union has mandated that all major ports provide shore-side electricity (SSE) infrastructure by 2030. SSE allows cruise ships to shut down their engines and plug into the local power grid. The industry is also exploring cleaner fuels like liquefied natural gas (LNG) and biofuels, alongside energy-efficient technologies such as catalytic converters and exhaust scrubbers.
Cruise operators, including members of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), have committed to expanding their shore power capability. As of 2024, over half of their fleets can connect to shore power, with projections that 72% will be outfitted by 2028.
Port-by-Port Snapshot: The Battle Against Emissions
Here’s how some of the world’s busiest and most challenged cruise ports are tackling pollution:
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Barcelona, Spain
- Problem: In 2022, cruise ships visiting Barcelona emitted more sulphur dioxide here than in any other European port (approx. 32,800 tonnes).
- Action: Shore power infrastructure is under development, but progress has been slow. Civil society groups continue to push for faster reforms.
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Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
- Problem: The port recorded nearly 28,500 tonnes of SO₂ emissions in 2022.
- Action: Port authorities are studying alternative fuel use and expanding green infrastructure, but SSE is still limited.
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Palma de Mallorca, Spain
- Problem: Another top polluter with over 28,000 tonnes of SO₂ emissions.
- Action: No current shore power infrastructure; the port faces criticism for lagging behind in sustainability commitments.
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Venice, Italy
- Problem: Once heavily polluted due to high cruise traffic in its historic lagoon.
- Action: A partial cruise ban led to an 80% reduction in sulphur emissions. Large ships are now rerouted to industrial ports outside the city centre.
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Piraeus (Athens), Greece
- Problem: 26,000 tonnes of SO₂ in 2022, mostly from docked ships.
- Action: Piraeus markets itself as the “Green Port of the Mediterranean,” with investments in LNG, emissions monitoring, and a roadmap to shore power.
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Lisbon, Portugal
- Problem: Cruise traffic in Lisbon has been growing steadily, leading to increased emissions in the heart of the city.
- Action: In 2023, Lisbon inaugurated its first shore power facility, becoming one of the early adopters in southern Europe. The port has also launched a “Green Port Strategy” aiming to electrify at least 50% of all cruise calls by 2030. Lisbon’s unique geography, with cruise terminals just meters from residential neighbourhoods, makes these initiatives particularly urgent.
Looking Ahead: Clean Ports, Healthier Cities
The transition to sustainable cruising is underway, but uneven. While cities like Seattle and Oslo have already mandated full use of shore power, many European ports are still in the planning stages. This creates a patchwork of environmental standards and pressures cruise lines to adapt on a port-by-port basis.
In the long run, a cleaner cruise industry benefits everyone: tourists enjoy healthier, more attractive destinations, while residents gain relief from toxic emissions.
Lisbon, with its recent investments and strategic location, stands poised to become a leader in green port infrastructure, setting an example for other southern European cities that have long grappled with balancing economic benefits and environmental health.
Sources: DW, Guardian, Reuters, CLIA, MDPI, Greenmatch, Port of Lisbon Authority
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