#MedCruise4ourplanet

The last years, the goal to host more cruise activities is increasingly combined with the strategic importance of going ‘green’. Climate change, compliance with the institutional responses (e.g. IMO agenda for reducing the Greenhouse Gases (GHG), EU Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Directive, the new Port Reception Facilities Directive, and the EU Sulphur Directive) and the importance of sustainable cruising results from the growing size of cruise operations have resulted in related shipping agendas to include sustainability as a key condition for the acceptance of the most dynamic growth of seaborne trade all over the world.
A holistic approach to sustainable matters is defining the MedCruise strategy, decisions, activities and actions for the following years. Sustainability is the primary and most important pillar of our association, and it is approached in a holistic, human manner. Collaboration-innovation-implementation of different actions defines the #MedCruise4OurPlanet vision. We collaborate with GSTC on the sustainable destination criteria and the European Commission by participating in different forums, networks, working groups and advisory committees. CLIA is a strong partner; we are discussing developing joint initiatives to promote sustainable cruise activities in the Med and its adjoining seas, and also, we have set the Fit for 55 at the centre of these discussions.
The One General Assembly Registration-One tree innovative campaign succeeded in planting 185 trees in Portugal and France via Reforest Action; 28 tons of CO2 were stored, 555 shelters for animals were created, 740 months of oxygen were generated, and 185 hours of work were created. We implement an 80% no printing policy; all MedCruise publications are only online, QR code business cards are used, and in collaboration with our media partners, we identify the best online-only options for marketing.
Different studies and projects are in progress apart from the social-economic impact on the cruise sector. MedCruise was funded by the EC to identify joint/integrated strategies and solutions for preventing and minimising the potential polluting impacts of cruise and tourism activities on the Mediterranean hydrosphere.
MedCruise and AIVP have launched a joint Working Group focused on sustainable port-city relationships and cruises. The goal of the new WG is to reflect and share good practices that can facilitate a better coexistence between port cities and cruises. This a great opportunity for both organisations to strengthen their cooperation and help their members overcome this difficult period and plan a more sustainable future.
In the context of sustainability strategy of the Association, with more actions that are not listed above, MedCruise is joining the efforts to achieve the three objectives of the Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030 by participating in the public mobilisation and engagement enabler and, more specific actions on citizen engagement, citizens-science, youth-led initiatives, communities of practice, ocean and water literacy, outreach, awareness raising and participatory approaches will be developed.