CLIA Urges Governments to Boost Sustainable Marine Fuel Production for EU Decarbonization Goals

At the European Summit in Genoa, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) called on governments to increase production of sustainable marine fuels to meet the EU decarbonization goals by 2025. The industry estimates that 44,000 tonnes of sustainable marine fuels will be needed in Europe to align with the 2030 targets. With 55 cruise ships on order, representing a €33.9 billion investment for the next five years, cruise lines are making significant advancements in energy-efficient and environmentally friendly ships to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. However, the availability of sustainable marine fuels at scale remains a challenge, and CLIA is urging governments to set more ambitious production targets for synthetic and biofuels.

CLIA is conducting a research study to determine the local investment required for the industry to decarbonize by 2050, focusing on fuel infrastructure, technology, and sailing routes. The cruise industry is collaborating with fuel producers and engine manufacturers to explore sustainable energy sources such as biofuels, synthetic e-fuels like e-methane and e-methanol, and hybrid solutions like electric batteries, bio-LNG, and hydrogen fuel cells. CLIA is also advocating for governments to reinvest revenues from maritime into funding necessary infrastructure and supporting the deployment of renewable energy solutions at accessible prices.

Jason Liberty, global Chair of CLIA, emphasized the industry’s commitment to transitioning to low-to-zero carbon fuels and the importance of collaboration with global leaders and changemakers to ensure the availability, affordability, and scalability of sustainable marine fuels. CLIA is calling for stronger partnerships with ports, governments, and communities to drive the green transition of the maritime sector and achieve a sustainable future for cruise shipping.

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