Description
Often referred to as 'floating hotels', river cruise ships can apply many best practices from the hotel industry to its guest cabins, restaurants and housekeeping. National and international regulations prescribe mandatory health and safety, security and environmental actions, and the cruise industry itself is working on voluntary sustainability certifications.
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3. Operational management of river cruise ships
3.1 Overview
Often referred to as ‘floating hotels’, river cruise ships can apply many best practices from the hotel
industry to its guest cabins, restaurants and housekeeping. National and international regulations
prescribe mandatory health and safety, security and environmental actions, and the cruise industry
itself is working on voluntary sustainability certifications (such as Green Globe).
River cruise ships share many of the same characteristics as their land-based equivalents - they
contain features to accommodate and entertain and relax guests, serve food and drink, all in
comfort. Gym and spa facilities are not uncommon on modern vessels. To achieve this ships
require, kitchens, bars, restaurants, food and beverage storage and staff accommodation. The
whole ship will be supplied by heating, cooling, lighting, potable water, solid and liquid waste
facilities.
In contrast to land-based accommodation, river cruise ships have several unique characteristics.
Unless the ship is docked, it is not connected to mains electricity, potable water and sewerage
which therefore requires that these are stocked onboard within its limited confines or it has the
means to produce or treat them itself.
In addition, unless utilising electricity from solar panels or using sails, the ship must store enough
energy in the form of fuel, for propulsion.
Another unique factor of a river cruise ship is that it operates in relatively sensitive environment.
Contamination in rivers migrates very quickly and, in contrast to a cruise ship in the middle of the
ocean, contaminants could quickly impact on riverbank side receptors such as plants, terrestrial
fauna and humans.
The design, operation and maintenance of the ship as a transport vessel adds additional layers of
complexity. During the course of a cruise these will alter with the national regulations of each
country the ship passes through, in addition to international and European Union (EU) regulations
that govern all vessels.
In this section of the best practice guide, seven main topics associated with resource efficiency in
river cruising operational management are covered:
1. Monitoring
2. Energy
3. Water
4. Wastewater
5. Waste
6. Communications
7. Environmental Management System.
For each topic a brief summary is offered of the potential impacts, the rationale for best practice and
suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
Before starting to plan how to improve particular sustainability aspects of river cruise operations it
would be well worth researching the current situation, if not already done. The checklist provided in
appendix 1, though not exhaustive, will help with that task.
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3.2 Monitoring
In order to achieve improved resource efficiency and sustainability on river cruise ships, a
monitoring system should be established, together with a preventive maintenance system. This is
usually the responsibility of the Chief Engineer onboard. The aim is to allow the company to;
• establish a performance baseline of water, energy use and waste production;
• determine long-term trends;
• set targets for improvements;
• asses performance against those targets; and,
• identify problems as soon as they occur.
Monitoring involves gathering and analysis of key information on a regular basis. This starts with a
‘baseline’ - the initial measurement or calculation used as a basis for comparison with future data.
There are many potential measurement points and data sources for water, waste and energy that
can be used to set up, or improve an existing, monitoring system, (see appendix 2). Existing
documentation and logs can often be used as a source for this type of data. This type of data can
be automated and communicated between ships and the company head office using specialised
marine management software, for example, MXSuite software produced by Mastex
(www.mastex.nl).
Indices of water or energy use should be used to set targets and track progress. Total consumption
indicators can be used, or divided by a relevant denominator (such as monthly guest night
occupancy). The self-assessment checklist (see Appendix I) can serve as starting point. More
guidelines, videos and tools are available on the Travel Foundation’s website;
www.thetravelfoundation.org.
Monitoring engine performance Temperature log
A preventive maintenance programme should be in place to ensure that all equipment is working
properly and efficiently at all times, including the following key elements:
• servicing of equipment to manufacturer’s recommendations;
• leak detection and repair;
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• checking the conditions of seals, e.g. refrigerator door seals;
• cleaning, e.g. condenser coils;
• proper operation of thermostats;
• checking regularly for wear and tear on valves and pumps;
• carrying out pressure testing of pipelines and tanks, as appropriate, using approved testing
procedures and contractors;
• calibration of metering and dosing systems regularly to avoid overuse of cleaning chemicals;
• application of appropriate corrosion protection metal tanks, vessels and pipe work; and,
• checking and, where necessary, replacing critical items as they approach the end of their
predicted life expectancy to avoid failure and leaks.
These elements are covered in more detail in each of the following sections on energy, water,
wastewater and solid waste.
3.3 Energy
In this section, energy use is discussed, including the potential impacts, the rationale for best
practice and suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
3.3.1 What are the issues?
Greenhouse gases produced by fossil fuel combustion are a significant contributor to climate
change, therefore a business that minimises the use of energy is acting responsibly in this regard.
Other by products of combustion have the potential to impact on local and regional air quality.
Fuel is a major cost for river cruise companies, fuel prices have risen significantly in recent years
and continuity of supply is not guaranteed.
Putting in place environmental performance measures can lower greenhouse emissions and other
emissions to air, all whilst reducing costs and reducing risk.
Electrical energy on river ships is generally provided by two sources that are often used in
combination: onboard generators and shoreside electrical power.
Shoreside power is used when a ship is at berth and its main and auxiliary engines are turned off.
Using the onboard generators will be more expensive than using shoreside power when it is
available (depending on the rates in the port) ) and produces more emissions to air and noise locally.
Fuel for propulsion is the other major contributor to energy consumption on a ship. Whilst many
factors influence fuel consumption (such as river water flow, going upstream or downstream, traffic
at locks and itinerary requirements), an inefficient cruising style, poorly-planned itineraries, lack of
maintenance and not utilising modern engines and other aspects of ship design will contribute to
high fuel use.
Energy costs can be significantly reduced by monitoring energy consumption, investing in the most
up-to-date technology, establishing energy-saving procedures, training staff, raising awareness of
guests, and making good use of existing port facilities.
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3.3.2 What should be done?
During the periodic refitting of a ship, modern technology should be installed to ensure optimal
energy consumption. Staff should be trained to follow energy-saving procedures in all areas.
Guests should be made aware of opportunities for saving energy on a voluntary basis, as part of
welcome sessions or through signs in the appropriate places.
Careful planning will help make optimum use of port facilities and establish efficient itineraries to
reduce fuel consumption. Captains should also be trained to employ a fuel-saving cruising style,
taking into account relevant factors, such as the current river water level or locks times.
The following measures will help reduce energy consumption onboard:
Install and monitor of sub-meters in key areas of the ship to allow for monitoring of energy
consumption by individual ship area, such as kitchens, and thus give a greater
understanding of ship performance and more precise location of problems should they occur.
Install low-wattage, energy-saving LED lamps. Typically, LED bulbs use less energy and
need to be replaced much less often than an equivalent incandescent or CFL bulb, saving
cost and environmental impact over its lifetime. Use the lowest wattage feasible for each
environment (restaurant, bar, aisles, guest cabins, guest bathrooms). Figures 3.1 and 3.2
show typical energy consumption and service life of different types of lamps, making evident
the benefits of LED lamps.
Figure 3.1: Typical amount of light
produced by watt of power
Figure 3.2: Typical service life of lamps
Data Source: Guidelines for Environmental Sustainability in Hotels, TUI Travel PLC, March 2011
Use differentiated management of lighting through switchboards that allow for partial
dimming or switching off of lights in public areas, such as the restaurant or bars.
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LED lighting in onboard restaurant Sliding door sensor regulating A/C
Install pipes (hot water and air conditioning) to reduce heat loss.
Check that rubber seals are in good repair for all refrigerated rooms, refrigerators and
freezers.
Implement room key card systems and movement sensors to control heating, ventilation,
and air conditioning (HVAC) energy consumption and lighting in guest cabins and other
areas while guests are absent.
Install sensors at sliding window doors that will turn off the air conditioning (AC) when
opened.
Use modern energy-efficient appliances such as laundry machines, dishwashers,
cooking heaters. Take into account reliability
Take into account reliability and environmental considerations in purchasing decisions
when replacing equipment. A good opportunity for this is during and routine
refurbishments.
During winter storage, mooring or refitting of ships, use shorepower where possible or
share generators between ships from the same company.
Maintain digital records of planned maintenance and monitoring records of all equipment
onboard to allow long-term performance reviews and more fuel-efficient operation of the
ship.
Use shorepower wherever available. Contrary to the ship’s generator that provides
power at a certain level independently from the electrical devices that are in operation on
the ship, shorepower is always provided in accordance with the actual power
requirements at any given time. Additionally, shorepower helps reduce greenhouse gas
emissions as it is generally more efficiently produced.
Encourage those ports that do not yet offer hook-up to shorepower to do so, possibly in
conjunction with other river cruise companies.
Use laundry machines, dishwashers and appliances at full capacity/load.
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Onboard washing machine at full capacity Typical shoreside power connection
Where possible use small pop-up toasters, rather than conveyer toasters.
Establish clear procedures and train staff to reduce energy consumption of the HVAC
systems, lighting in guest cabins and public areas, and other electrical devices, by providing
guidelines on when they should be turned off, e.g. when guests are not occupying the cabin,
or when public areas during the night should be dimmed.
Within large rooms install a lighting system that allow for dimming in the unused areas.
Create awareness amongst guests about the ways they can reduce energy consumption
when not in their room, such as;
o switching off lights, TV and other electrical devices;
o turning off the air conditioning and suggesting a reasonable thermostat temperature,
o drawing curtains to avoid sunlight heating-up the room.
3.3.3 Fuel consumption for propulsion
Fuel for propulsion is a very important aspect of energy consumption of a river cruise ship and so
represents a significant opportunity for making efficiency gains. The following measures for
reducing fuel use should be considered:
Set up fuel meters in the wheelhouse that allow captains to optimise their cruising style, for
example by avoiding high cruising speeds that are not required to meet the planned itinerary.
Establish indicators to monitor cruising styles, benchmarking fuel consumption for
comparable journeys to measure and manage fuel consumption patterns.
Establish a preventive monitoring and maintenance system for engines and generators
according the to the manufacturer’s service schedule to help prevent, and quickly resolve,
mechanical performance issues that could increase fuel consumption.
Train captains to adopt a fuel-efficient cruising style.
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Fuel meter in wheelhouse Fuel meter in engine room
Design itineraries in such a way that travelling at maximum speed is unnecessary
Establish a minimum fuel use per kilometre specification when commissioning new ship
designs.
Install up-to-date fuel-efficient engines and generators.
Use engine and generators with a generating capacity matched to the needs of the ship.
3.3.4 Emissions to air
Emissions to air are usually not measured directly but instead calculated as a function of fuel
consumption, multiplying the total diesel consumed (kg) by published emission factors (such as
greenhouse gases) or by data provided by the engine manufacturer.
Strategies to reduce emissions are the same as those to conserve fuel, but with the addition of:
Compliance with all applicable legal regulations concerning emissions.
Installation of state of the art particulate filter technology.
3.4 Water
In this section, water use is discussed, including the potential impacts, the rationale for best practice
and suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
3.4.1 What are the issues?
Clean water is a precious resource and it is important to use it sparingly. The energy used to pump,
clean and heat water also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Contaminated water has the
potential to pollute the environment if released.
Minimising its use helps to;
• ensure continuity of future supply, protect natural river and groundwater sources;
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• reduces the need to build new dams;
• care for fresh water habitats for local wildlife and migrating waterfowl;
• cut down on associated greenhouse gas emissions; and,
• create less wastewater.
Cruise ships commonly stock potable water from shore to be used for all requirements. The
requirement to store both fresh and wastewater takes up considerable space.
Significant amounts of water are used for a wide range of purposes onboard a river cruise ship -
from housekeeping, laundry, and kitchens to guest and staff showers, taps and toilets, to exterior
deck and window cleaning. In some cases, river cruise ships can have a swimming pool, increasing
water consumption.
By understanding water use onboard, monitoring its use and working towards reduction targets the
river cruise company will both save costs (in its purchase and treatment) and its impact on the
environment.
3.4.2 What should be done?
The total volume of water stocked for each journey should be measured and recorded in litres. Over
time baseline water consumption can be established and future use tracked against it.
The following is a list of some of the most important water-saving techniques that should be applied
in guest and crew cabins and public area, as appropriate:
Install water sub meters in various strategic points, such as the supply for the kitchen, so
that a more detailed picture of water consumption onboard can be built up and problems
detected at an early stage.
Fit low-flush (vacuum) toilets with low capacity cisterns.
Fit taps with flow controllers such as aerators, restrictors or percussion (push) taps.
Fit showers with flow restrictors or special low-flow showerheads.
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Inefficient high-volume
toilet cisterns Trigger nozzle to minimise water wastage
Photograph courtesy of Daniel Oines
Train staff members to report leaks and drips to the engineering department. The
housekeepers are ideal people to do this on a daily basis so that problems can be rectified
quickly.
Put in place a towel and bed linen reuse programme with staff training and instructions to
guests.
Separate and pre-treat soiled laundry items to avoid re-washing.
Load washing machines and dishwashers to capacity before use. Where frequent small
loads occur (such as guest’s self-service laundry) make smaller machines available.
Review the efficiency of installed washing machines and dishwashers and replace with
modern and more water efficient models during refitting.
Fit hoses with trigger nozzles so that they cannot be left running unintended (both those on-
deck as well as for pre-washing dishes).
Where possible, use of river (instead of potable) water for deck cleaning.
Backwash pool sand filters based on need with visual windows or back pressure, rather than
a fixed daily schedule.
Guest bathrooms are one of the most water-intensive areas on river cruise ships, so if the fittings
aren't already efficient, it is an area with great potential to make cost-savings and improve
environmental performance.
The water section of the Travel Foundation’s Greener Accommodations Guide explains how to
calculate water flow rates in more detail, as well as the impact and payback periods. Simple flow
tests can be carried out with buckets of a known volume and a stopwatch and then compared to
best practice standards for hotel accommodation
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: See the webpage at the link for more details:http://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/green_business_tools/greener_accommodations/water
[Alternatively:http://tinyurl.com/cermrhg ]
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Travelife www.travelife.org is one of several international certification schemes. It was designed by the Association of British Tour
Operators (ABTA) for the travel industry with the aim of helping to improve the management of hotel social and environmental
issues, by complying with the requirements of 99 sustainability criteria (criteria currently under review).
Showerheads - Showerheads that
of water but also unnecessary amounts of energy in heating that water.
replaced with low-flow showerheads or fitted with effective water conservation devices, such as flow
restrictors. Low-flow showerheads are specifically designed to generate a satisfying shower flow
while using only 8 to 10 litres/min.
Taps - Where high flow rates are not required,
litres/min in cabins, public and employee bathrooms and 10 litres/min in bar, kitchen and laundry
sinks. The flow output of inefficient taps can be reduc
Installing aerators that generate the desired maximum flow output (this includes replacing
aerators that produce excessively high flow).
Installing a flow restrictor in the connection between the aerator and the tap or in the pipes
that supply water to the tap.
Partially closing the shut-
water to the tap. This measure however is generally less effective and yields lower savings
than the other measures described above.
Automatic tap in guest cabin Low
Toilet cisterns - Toilet flush water volume
following in mind. This can be achieved by
Having a vacuum system (commonly aboard ships). Vacuum systems, if set
tend to be more water-efficient than siphon or dual
The size of the cistern should be six litres or contain a displacement device.
Toilets should be dual-flush models, which use a partial flush for liquid wastes and a full
flush of six litres or less.
Housekeeping staff often flush the toilet several times during the course of cleaning rooms. The
supervisor may even flush once more on checking, simpl
policy” to the room cleaning procedure will save significant amounts of water every day.
3.5 Wastewater
In this section the focus is on wastewater, with a brief summary provided on the potential impacts,
the rationale for best practice and suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
that use a high flow rate of water not only use unnecessary amounts
of water but also unnecessary amounts of energy in heating that water. They should either be
flow showerheads or fitted with effective water conservation devices, such as flow
flow showerheads are specifically designed to generate a satisfying shower flow
n.
Where high flow rates are not required, taps should be limited to a
litres/min in cabins, public and employee bathrooms and 10 litres/min in bar, kitchen and laundry
sinks. The flow output of inefficient taps can be reduced by:
Installing aerators that generate the desired maximum flow output (this includes replacing
aerators that produce excessively high flow).
Installing a flow restrictor in the connection between the aerator and the tap or in the pipes
ter to the tap.
-off valves that are generally installed on the pipes that convey
water to the tap. This measure however is generally less effective and yields lower savings
than the other measures described above.
Automatic tap in guest cabin Low-flow showerhead in guest cabin
water volume should be limited to maximum of
following in mind. This can be achieved by
Having a vacuum system (commonly aboard ships). Vacuum systems, if set
efficient than siphon or dual-flush systems.
The size of the cistern should be six litres or contain a displacement device.
flush models, which use a partial flush for liquid wastes and a full
Housekeeping staff often flush the toilet several times during the course of cleaning rooms. The
supervisor may even flush once more on checking, simply out of habit. Implementing a “one flush
policy” to the room cleaning procedure will save significant amounts of water every day.
In this section the focus is on wastewater, with a brief summary provided on the potential impacts,
rationale for best practice and suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
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use a high flow rate of water not only use unnecessary amounts
They should either be
flow showerheads or fitted with effective water conservation devices, such as flow
flow showerheads are specifically designed to generate a satisfying shower flow
taps should be limited to a maximum output of 6
litres/min in cabins, public and employee bathrooms and 10 litres/min in bar, kitchen and laundry
Installing aerators that generate the desired maximum flow output (this includes replacing
Installing a flow restrictor in the connection between the aerator and the tap or in the pipes
off valves that are generally installed on the pipes that convey
water to the tap. This measure however is generally less effective and yields lower savings
flow showerhead in guest cabin
should be limited to maximum of six litres, with the
Having a vacuum system (commonly aboard ships). Vacuum systems, if set-up correctly
The size of the cistern should be six litres or contain a displacement device.
flush models, which use a partial flush for liquid wastes and a full
Housekeeping staff often flush the toilet several times during the course of cleaning rooms. The
y out of habit. Implementing a “one flush
policy” to the room cleaning procedure will save significant amounts of water every day.
In this section the focus is on wastewater, with a brief summary provided on the potential impacts,
rationale for best practice and suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
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3.5.1 What are the issues?
Wastewater management is important for three main reasons:
1. Discharges of wastewater into waterways, depending on the nature of the discharge, the
sensitivity of the location and the frequency of discharges, can have serious negative
environmental and public health impacts and damage the responsible party’s reputation
2. River cruise ships, just as with any inland waterway vessel, must comply with legislation on
inland waterways. National and/or regional legislation may mandate the segregation of
wastewater streams, use of holding tanks, disposal via port facilities and parameters for
wastewater discharge into waterways (see section 3.10 legal frameworks). Additionally,
compliance with EU regulations is required, such as those that stipulate that ships must be
equipped with treatment devices to prevent the discharge of untreated or inadequately treated
wastewater.
3. Producing and treating wastewater has a financial cost. A given volume of wastewater
represents the various costs that have gone into making it, e.g. purchasing metered potable
water, use of cleaning chemicals and water heating. Wastewater treatment systems are not
cost-free to purchase and maintain and greater volumes of wastewater will require larger and
possibly more complex equipment.
Three terms are commonly used to distinguish the main types of wastewater streams created on
cruise ships: ‘blackwater’, ‘greywater’, and ‘bilge water’. These streams must be strictly segregated
onboard in order to ensure proper and efficient treatment and disposal:
• Blackwater is sewage (toilet waste which contains harmful bacteria and viruses). An estimated
20-40 litres per person is produced per day (Butt 2007). Cruise ships use treatment devices
with physical, chemical and/or biological processes to allow effluent to be treated and
discharged with characteristics that are similar to effluents from wastewater treatment plants on
land (Sweeting & Wayne 2006).
• Greywater is wastewater from sinks, showers and washing machines (which contains a variety
of substances including detergents, oils and greases, and food waste) and typically the greatest
source of liquid waste generated by cruise ships
• Bilge water is any water spilt in the interior, or ship wash water on the exterior, that collects in a
tank in lowest part of the ship and is often contaminated with oil.
3.5.2 What should be done?
Any comprehensive strategy should first focus on reducing the volume of wastewater produced in
the first place. Minimising water use (see section 3.4) will reduce the amount of wastewater
generated onboard, thereby lowering both the costs of wastewater handing and treatment and
minimising environment risk.
River cruise ships should have the most up-to-date treatment technology and measures in place to
ensure that wastewater discharge meets or exceeds acceptable quality limits within the law. This
includes related management such as handling sludge and backwash from filtration, separated
water from oil/water separator, and preventive maintenance such as replacing filters. In terms of
best practice, considerable advances have been made in shipboard technology sector for
wastewater purification over the last decade and the most effective and efficient equipment should
be sought.
Four main strategies to reduce wastewater costs and risks are outline below.
1. Reduce the quantity of wastewater
Reduce the use of water to reduce the volume of wastewater produced, as outlined in
section 3.4.
2. Reduce the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater before discharge into the river or
sewerage system
Use state-of-the art on-bard treatment systems.
Enzymes used to break down bacteria in
for an onboard treatment system
Reduce the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater by reducing the use of cleaning
chemicals. If using concentrated cleaning products an automatic electronic dosing system
will lower the volumes used (as humans typically pour more than the minimum requirement).
Clean the bilge water using "passive" methods such as
to break down the hydrocarbons i
3. Improve the treatability of water
Procure more readily biodegradable products certified by independent organisations such as
Green Seal, Environmental Choice, GreenGuard, EU Flower and Nordic Swan.
4. Assure secure containment and handling of wastewater
Ensure that wastewater is securely stored (no leaks), clearly labelled (to avoid accidental
mixing of incompatible chemicals in the water), has secondary containment where applicable.
Include all waste water storage, transfer and treatment equipment are included in the
maintenance programme.
Make sure that staff are trained in the handling and correct handling and disposal of liquid
waste.
Four main strategies to reduce wastewater costs and risks are outline below.
1. Reduce the quantity of wastewater
Reduce the use of water to reduce the volume of wastewater produced, as outlined in
2. Reduce the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater before discharge into the river or
bard treatment systems.
Enzymes used to break down bacteria in Automatic dosing system for cleaning
chemicals
e the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater by reducing the use of cleaning
chemicals. If using concentrated cleaning products an automatic electronic dosing system
volumes used (as humans typically pour more than the minimum requirement).
Clean the bilge water using "passive" methods such as bioremediation
to break down the hydrocarbons in the water into harmless by-products.
3. Improve the treatability of water
Procure more readily biodegradable products certified by independent organisations such as
Green Seal, Environmental Choice, GreenGuard, EU Flower and Nordic Swan.
Assure secure containment and handling of wastewater
Ensure that wastewater is securely stored (no leaks), clearly labelled (to avoid accidental
mixing of incompatible chemicals in the water), has secondary containment where applicable.
water storage, transfer and treatment equipment are included in the
maintenance programme.
Make sure that staff are trained in the handling and correct handling and disposal of liquid
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Reduce the use of water to reduce the volume of wastewater produced, as outlined in
2. Reduce the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater before discharge into the river or
Automatic dosing system for cleaning
e the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater by reducing the use of cleaning
chemicals. If using concentrated cleaning products an automatic electronic dosing system
volumes used (as humans typically pour more than the minimum requirement).
bioremediation, which uses bacteria
products.
Procure more readily biodegradable products certified by independent organisations such as
Green Seal, Environmental Choice, GreenGuard, EU Flower and Nordic Swan.
Ensure that wastewater is securely stored (no leaks), clearly labelled (to avoid accidental
mixing of incompatible chemicals in the water), has secondary containment where applicable.
water storage, transfer and treatment equipment are included in the
Make sure that staff are trained in the handling and correct handling and disposal of liquid
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Check that wastewater transfer equipment is suitably designed and sized for the job.
Put in place emergency procedures and spill containment equipment and that they are well-
understood and practiced.
Collect bilge water in suitable oil/water separators and dispose at ports or through
specialised oil separator vessels with disposal facilities for this type of waste.
Electronic dosage system Sign advising about onboard water-saving technology
Any strategy to reduce wastewater should always focus first and foremost on the reduction of water
consumption. Once all possibilities have been exhausted in this regard, wastewater minimisation is
essentially a technological issue, not one determined primarily by staff or guest behaviour, and
should be optimised using the most advanced equipment and bio-chemicals available for treatment.
3.6 Solid waste
This section explains the hidden costs of solid waste, how minimisation of solid waste is less about
technology and treatment and more about avoiding becoming waste in the first place and their
subsequent handling, plus actions river cruise companies should take to achieve this.
3.6.1 What are the issues?
The production of materials and their processing once onboard the ship all use finite natural
resources in the form of raw materials, energy supplies and fresh water. If poorly managed, waste
has the potential to pollute the natural environment.
Producing and handling solid waste also has a financial cost. Taking the example of food waste,
the cost of that waste is much more than the obvious cost of disposal charges. The hidden costs
are the costs of the ingredients, packaging, transportation, refrigeration, labour for preparation,
energy and water for cooking and cleaning, plus the labour cost of handling it once it is waste.
In addition, if a river cruising company has to factor in large quantities of extra stock and space to
store it, plus space to hold waste before disposal, all because of excess waste production, this
represents additional storage space onboard; space that might otherwise be more profitably used
for additional or larger rooms for other purposes.
An average cruise ship will generate an estimated minimum of 1 kg of solid waste per day per
passenger (Sweeting and Wayne 2003). A large proportion of that waste will be inert but other
fractions of the waste will not be. For example, food waste is putrescible which can create
leachates (liquid waste) harmful to aquatic life and nuisance odours. Certain solid wastes, such as
fluorescent light bulbs, contain hazardous substances which need to be handled acco
With limited storage space onboard, river cruise ship operations depend on frequent access to
adequate waste reception facilities on shore and, where port companies do not provide a disposal
service themselves, contracts with specialised waste co
Variance in waste management facilities at ports, and different regulations in each country can pose
challenges in terms of waste management.
It is not only important not only manage waste for the safety and comfort
protect fragile river habitats, but equally to dispose of waste onshore properly.
The disposal of hazardous chemicals and solid waste contaminated with oil, such as oily rags and
used oil filters, is subject to strict legal national
monitored and logged in detail, for example by means of the oil record book that is obligatory in
many countries in Europe.
3.6.2 What should be done?
Strategies to optimise waste management include the “three
well as other options, specified in the waste hierarchy (Figure 3.3 below). The most preferable
option – at the top - is prevention, avoiding solid waste altogether; while the least preferable option
is disposal – at the bottom – that if necessary, should be done properly employing adequate
facilities. All other options appear in between, in decreasing order of preference.
Figure 3.3: The waste hierarchy
In general, the measures taken towards the top of the waste
savings and reduce negative environmental impacts and those towards its base, the least.
An average cruise ship will generate an estimated minimum of 1 kg of solid waste per day per
passenger (Sweeting and Wayne 2003). A large proportion of that waste will be inert but other
e will not be. For example, food waste is putrescible which can create
leachates (liquid waste) harmful to aquatic life and nuisance odours. Certain solid wastes, such as
fluorescent light bulbs, contain hazardous substances which need to be handled acco
With limited storage space onboard, river cruise ship operations depend on frequent access to
adequate waste reception facilities on shore and, where port companies do not provide a disposal
service themselves, contracts with specialised waste companies to dispose of hazardous waste.
Variance in waste management facilities at ports, and different regulations in each country can pose
challenges in terms of waste management.
It is not only important not only manage waste for the safety and comfort
protect fragile river habitats, but equally to dispose of waste onshore properly.
The disposal of hazardous chemicals and solid waste contaminated with oil, such as oily rags and
used oil filters, is subject to strict legal national and international regulations and needs to be
monitored and logged in detail, for example by means of the oil record book that is obligatory in
Strategies to optimise waste management include the “three Rs”, Reduce -
well as other options, specified in the waste hierarchy (Figure 3.3 below). The most preferable
is prevention, avoiding solid waste altogether; while the least preferable option
that if necessary, should be done properly employing adequate
facilities. All other options appear in between, in decreasing order of preference.
In general, the measures taken towards the top of the waste hierarchy will realise the greatest cost
savings and reduce negative environmental impacts and those towards its base, the least.
19
An average cruise ship will generate an estimated minimum of 1 kg of solid waste per day per
passenger (Sweeting and Wayne 2003). A large proportion of that waste will be inert but other
e will not be. For example, food waste is putrescible which can create
leachates (liquid waste) harmful to aquatic life and nuisance odours. Certain solid wastes, such as
fluorescent light bulbs, contain hazardous substances which need to be handled accordingly.
With limited storage space onboard, river cruise ship operations depend on frequent access to
adequate waste reception facilities on shore and, where port companies do not provide a disposal
mpanies to dispose of hazardous waste.
Variance in waste management facilities at ports, and different regulations in each country can pose
It is not only important not only manage waste for the safety and comfort of passengers and to
protect fragile river habitats, but equally to dispose of waste onshore properly.
The disposal of hazardous chemicals and solid waste contaminated with oil, such as oily rags and
and international regulations and needs to be
monitored and logged in detail, for example by means of the oil record book that is obligatory in
- Reuse - Recycle, as
well as other options, specified in the waste hierarchy (Figure 3.3 below). The most preferable
is prevention, avoiding solid waste altogether; while the least preferable option
that if necessary, should be done properly employing adequate
facilities. All other options appear in between, in decreasing order of preference.
hierarchy will realise the greatest cost
savings and reduce negative environmental impacts and those towards its base, the least.
20
Prevention – This is preventing waste from being created in the first place. Reduce the
generation of waste that could not be prevented by ordering the minimum amounts of goods
required, come in minimal packaging and goods that last longer.
Reuse – Use materials repeatedly. For example, use suppliers who can deliver food in
crates that can be returned and used over and over again, use refillable soap containers
rather than individually wrapped bars. Cleaning, repairing and refurbishing also falls into this
category.
Recycling – Recycling is turning waste into new materials and products. To aid this, ensure
proper separation of recyclable materials onboard and offload ports that can adequately
forward them to recycling facilities.
Recovery – Recovery refers to the recovering of energy embodied in the waste by
incineration or anaerobic digestion to produce energy or fuels. This is preferable to disposal
at a landfill that does not use energy/fuel recovery techniques.
Disposal – This is disposing to landfill without energy/fuel recovery. Even with this least
preferred option, there are possibilities of minimisation prior to disposal, for example
reducing the volume by compacting solid waste, e.g. glass crushers for wine bottles. This
increases the opportunity to hold on to recyclable waste until a port with proper recycling
facilities is reached.
Solid waste storage onboard requires adequate space, such as rooms for food waste with sealed
doors that prevent the escape of any odours or occurrence of pest, or even cooled waste storage
rooms in hotter climates, to ensure the comfort of guests. Typically, different types of waste are
stored in a number of locations on the river cruise ship before being disposed of at a port.
Waste disposal should make optimum use of port facilities through: a) separation of different types
of waste, and b) keeping hold of recyclable waste until a port that is able to send the waste off for
recycling is reached.
Creating and implementing a Waste Management Plan (WMP) will be an aid to ships in better
managing their waste minimisation, handling and removal in line with the waste hierarchy. A WMP
sets out your priorities and actions for tackling waste in your business. The diagram in Figure 3.4
outlines some example steps and process to do so.
Figure 3.4: Solid Waste Management Process
Source: A Manual for Waste and Water Management, UNEP, 2003
The main steps in developing the WMP are:
21
Complete a solid waste audit: Walk around your ships and ports you use to understand
waste streams onboard and define how they can be measured (see appendix 2 for
measurement point options).
Assess the waste management options for each type of waste in relation to the waste
hierarchy.
Develop the management plan, considering;
• operational structures, procedures and key responsibilities.
• financial costs, benefits and payback time.
• how the different elements will be phased when implemented; and,
• staff training and guest awareness.
Monitor results and review procedures, continuously aiming to improve the process.
More detailed guidance is available from other sources, but below are some examples of the types
of measures that should be implemented in line with the waste hierarchy. Also included and also
include aspects referring to management and communication:
Prevention
Control stock and purchasing policies carefully to avoid over-ordering.
Discuss ways of reducing packages and waste with your main suppliers, making an analysis
of all products regularly purchased. For example, your supplier may be able to make utilise
of reusable plastic boxes for fresh vegetables.
Go paperless wherever possible. Electronic ordering and invoicing systems are
commonplace.
Reduce waste by limiting disposable items such as small packages for food such as jam,
butter, milk etc. where bulk dispensers or containers could be used instead.
Place glass refillable filtered water bottles in guest bedrooms rather than plastic disposable
ones.
Reuse
Use refillable bottles and containers for, shampoo and soap.
Worn out or permanently stained bed linen can be reused to carry laundry instead of
disposable plastic sacks.
Donate obsolete furniture to non-profit organisations that can still make use of it.
22
Refillable soap containers In-room recycling bin arrangement
Recycling
Improve waste separation through the systematic use of colour-coded packs and bins for
different kinds of waste, following a unified system throughout the ship that is explained in
the operations manual and guest welcome pack.
Use garbage bins in guest cabins and other locations with inserts that allow pre-sorting
different types of waste such as food waste, plastic or paper.
List waste reception facilities at each port to support optimal waste disposal management.
This may mean storing a certain type of waste onboard until a port with appropriate facilities
for separation and recycling is reached.
Set-up special bins for receiving used batteries either from guests or staff and set up a
system to dispose at the appropriate shore facilities for hazardous waste from commercial
sources.
Guest and staff bathrooms can be supplied with high-quality recycled toilet paper.
Disposal
Use readily biodegradable soaps and other chemicals where possible.
Separate oil and fat in the kitchen and dispose of separately to wastewater.
Crush cans and bottles to save space.
Use a reputable disposal company – check their credentials.
Staff should be trained to comply with the WMP, assigning specific tasks and responsibilities for
each member. Staff should have knowledge of waste reception and recycling facilities in each port
so that each staff member can cooperate in storing and disposing solid waste accordingly. Training
should also be given so that queries from guests about waste policies will be handled well.
Management and communication:
Train staff to comply with the WMP and how to communicate the policies with guests, should
a situation require it.
Monitor and benchmark solid waste production and disposal route by type of waste (landfill,
recycling, organic, hazardous).
23
Create awareness among guests, sensitising them to the waste policies and the reasons for
them.
3.6.3 Case study: Sustainable Cruise
Sustainable Cruise (www.sustainablecruise.eu) is a project financed by the European programme
LIFE+ aimed at improving waste management efficiency. Currently focused on ocean-going cruise
ships, the lessons learned will still be relevant for river cruises in terms of reducing and recycling
solid waste onboard ships and the re-use or total disposal of residual waste.
The project is experimenting with management models and innovative technologies which meet the
objectives established by the European Directive on waste (Dir. 2008/98/EC), including the so-called
‘3Rs’: Reduce, Re-use and Recycle.
Starting with a pilot project on the Costa Pacifica, a detailed analysis of the waste flows is being
carried out with a focus on three waste categories: biodegradable, packaging and paper. At the end
of the project, innovative solutions for each of these three categories will be proposed. These
solutions will be aimed at the reduction of packaging, transformation of food and paper into
merchandisable by-products, and at increasing the percentage of waste destined for recycling.
The project also aims to develop a new monitoring methodology capable of quantifying the
reduction of emissions (in terms of CO
2
) derived from sustainable management of shipboard waste.
This can contribute to defining and applying the Kyoto climate change objectives to the cruise
sector, and provide the basis for a plan to define new type of certification that can guide future
European regulation in the sector.
3.7 Communications
Once specific steps are being taken towards implementing the best practices outlined in this guide,
a parallel communication strategy should make sure that staff are aware of the changes and
underlying policies, and understand the short, medium and long-term benefits that environmentally
sustainable river cruising will bring.
Beyond staff, communication should also be aimed at guests, so that they also understand they role
that they can play in helping to reduce any negative impact on the environment from tourism.
The Travel Foundation website offers a free range of guides that help businesses to communicate
best practices to both consumers and staff. Visit the communications tool at:http://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/green_business_tools/communications_tool
or:http://tinyurl.com/kyhhhq6
3.7.1 Staff communications and training
If a sustainability policy is to be effective, it has to be credible in a consistent way. For staff to take
ownership of sustainability issues it is important that management is equally committed, setting an
example wherever possible, and that the overriding purpose of the sustainability policy is clear, as
well as the procedures that help reach that goal. Credibility is also very important from a guest’s
point of view. Inconsistency will affect the opinion of guests and lower the morale of staff.
The whitepaper “Survival of the Fittest
number of examples showing the strong correlation between a business´ sustainable practices and
staff engagement. According to Business in the Community (a UK
75% of employees who believe their organisation is focused on sustainable development exhibit
high levels of commitment. CSR is a key driver in staff satisfaction
companies with a strong CSR culture.
improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Here are some essential tips for making sure that staff are committed to mak
Sustainability is not about isolated actions but rather a
decision and the entire company. Management plays an important role in setting an
example and establishing clear guidelines for sustainability policies in a river cruise
operation. This can be accomplished by setting up a
(EMS) (see section 3.8) and having a set of indicators to measure and monitor
environmental performance in an objective manner.
The existence and essence of the EMS should be communicated clearly to all staff through
handbooks, operation manuals and announcements that are posted visibly in key locations
on the ship.
Guest communication
Photograph courtesy of Uniworld Boutique
Annual training events before the main season should cover environmental practices, with
refresher courses offered during the year.
Train staff how to deal with guests when questions arise about environmental policies.
Ask for and take into account ideas
and designing new procedures
and instinctively know what will work and what will not.
As more sustainable solutions sometimes imply
guidelines should be established for any decision involving financial obligations (for example, when
purchasing energy-saving equipment or environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals) vs. the longer
term financial, risk reduction and brand reputation benefits.
Survival of the Fittest” (2012) published by the Travel Foundation highlights a
number of examples showing the strong correlation between a business´ sustainable practices and
staff engagement. According to Business in the Community (a UK-based sustainability charity),
75% of employees who believe their organisation is focused on sustainable development exhibit
high levels of commitment. CSR is a key driver in staff satisfaction – on average 50% higher in
companies with a strong CSR culture. Greater staff engagement also pays dividends in terms of
improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Here are some essential tips for making sure that staff are committed to making
Sustainability is not about isolated actions but rather a basic philosophy underlying every
decision and the entire company. Management plays an important role in setting an
example and establishing clear guidelines for sustainability policies in a river cruise
operation. This can be accomplished by setting up an Environmental Management System
(EMS) (see section 3.8) and having a set of indicators to measure and monitor
environmental performance in an objective manner.
The existence and essence of the EMS should be communicated clearly to all staff through
handbooks, operation manuals and announcements that are posted visibly in key locations
Communicating commitment
courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
Annual training events before the main season should cover environmental practices, with
refresher courses offered during the year.
Train staff how to deal with guests when questions arise about environmental policies.
Ask for and take into account ideas and suggestions from staff at all stages when planning
and designing new procedures - they’re the ones at the ‘coal face’, so will have good ideas
and instinctively know what will work and what will not.
As more sustainable solutions sometimes imply higher costs, if only in the short
guidelines should be established for any decision involving financial obligations (for example, when
saving equipment or environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals) vs. the longer
cial, risk reduction and brand reputation benefits.
24
” (2012) published by the Travel Foundation highlights a
number of examples showing the strong correlation between a business´ sustainable practices and
d sustainability charity),
75% of employees who believe their organisation is focused on sustainable development exhibit
on average 50% higher in
Greater staff engagement also pays dividends in terms of
ing a difference:
basic philosophy underlying every
decision and the entire company. Management plays an important role in setting an
example and establishing clear guidelines for sustainability policies in a river cruise
n Environmental Management System
(EMS) (see section 3.8) and having a set of indicators to measure and monitor
The existence and essence of the EMS should be communicated clearly to all staff through
handbooks, operation manuals and announcements that are posted visibly in key locations
Communicating commitment
Annual training events before the main season should cover environmental practices, with
Train staff how to deal with guests when questions arise about environmental policies.
and suggestions from staff at all stages when planning
they’re the ones at the ‘coal face’, so will have good ideas
higher costs, if only in the short-term, clear
guidelines should be established for any decision involving financial obligations (for example, when
saving equipment or environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals) vs. the longer-
25
Tip: The Travel Foundation has developed a range of training materials that can be integrated
into existing staff training plans. The training toolkit will also help integrate sustainability in to key
business areas – retail, overseas, purchasing, quality, new product development and marketing –
visithttp://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/green_business_tools/staff_training_development
or:http://tinyurl.com/kfzmt8o
Consistency is important for staff trained to separate different types of waste. If waste is observed
to be mixed during port disposal despite staff having previously separated it onboard, staff will be
demotivated to continue with waste separation procedures. Simultaneous efforts with port
authorities to maintain the separation of waste should be pursued and communicated to staff.
Monitoring is another important aspect for communicating any progress to staff. Key performance
Indicators (KPIs) should be clearly communicated to relevant staff. For example, fuel consumption
patterns to captains, household chemical use to hotel managers or energy consumption patterns to
engineers create an enhanced awareness of current environmental performance and trends.
By openly communicating performance data, or making it easily available, the process of
implementing environmentally friendly practices gains transparency and credibility and staff will be
motivated to contribute to improvements.
Positive competition can also help improve sustainability indicators. Reward systems should be set
up to recognise staff contributions to sustainability requirements and procedures, e.g. “employee of
the month”. Staff repeatedly failing to comply with company sustainability policies should face
disciplinary action.
3.7.2 Guest communications
In order to maximise the results of environmental best practice, the active participation of guests is
helpful. Explain to guests how they can make a difference. The focus of the message should be on
the ecological benefits to the local area, rather than the financial benefits of the environmental
programme to the company.
Supplying polite tips to guests on reducing energy use is now routine in hotels across the world –
encouragement to turn off appliances when not in use and to switch off lights and air conditioning
when they vacate their room or cabin. Towel and bed linen reuse programmes, will not only save
water but also energy and cleaning products too. This should be simply explained to clients using a
tent card in the bathroom or electronic display systems. Guests can then decide whether they want
to participate, rather than staff automatically changing towels and linens every day.
26
Explaining environmental measures
In-room TV, another possible
communication channel
Specific measures to create guest awareness include:
Explaining the company philosophy and provide recommendations during orientation
sessions.
Providing recommendations for environmentally friendly behaviour in orientation booklets
available each cabin, as well as through the company TV channel in cabins.
Provide explanatory signs in guest cabins and other areas.
In terms of environmental and cost impacts, it is important to monitor the programme to make sure it
is working properly. For example, the number of towels washed over a given period can easily be
tracked by the housekeeping department. This data can then be used to calculate the average
number of towels used, which should be around 0.7 bath towels per guest night. If it is more than
this, check whether guests have been adequately informed and that housekeeping staff are
complying with the programme.
The Travel Foundation provides advice through its consumer-facing Make Holidays Greener
website that can be shared with guests for creating general awareness and a sense of shared
responsibility (http://www.makeholidaysgreener.org.uk/download-guides
orhttp://tinyurl.com/lgv2zrl ).
3.8 Environmental Management Systems
A common and well-established way for companies to address and minimise its environmental
impacts, manage legal compliance and continuously improve performance, is through an
‘environmental management system’ (EMS).
The Travel Foundation and the waste recycling organisation, WRAP UK, suggest the following key
elements of a typical EMS (and shown in Figure 3.5):
27
Figure 3.5 – Elements of a typical EMS
Source: Your Guide to Environmental Management Systems, WRAP
The following steps lead to the establishment of an EMS:
1. an assessment of how company activities, products, processes and services might affect the
environment,
2. the development of an environmental policy that shows the commitment to environmental
excellence by top management,
3. procedures and environmental improvement programme or action plan,
4. defined roles and responsibilities for all employees with environmental responsibility onboard
- create a staff 'green team',
5. a training and awareness programme,
6. written procedures to control activities with a significant environmental impact,
7. a controlled system of records,
8. periodic auditing to ensure effective operation; and,
9. a formal review by senior management to analyse the objectives achieved and define new
activities for the next year.
Performance against the Management Programme can be measured in a variety of way, such as;
performance against resource efficiency targets.
28
legal compliance,
policy awareness levels amongst staff,
non-conformance issues,
complaints from authorities or other stakeholders, and,
tests of emergency preparedness.
An effective system also ensures good administrative control and provides evidence that internal
procedures are well-managed.
3.9 Itinerary planning
Various aspects of river cruise itineraries influence its environmental impact. This represents
another opportunity for river cruising companies to minimise their environmental impact - by careful
planning of itineraries.
Taking the example of fuel use, and related greenhouse gas emissions, the distance between two
ports and the required journey times between determines the speed at which the river cruise ship
has to travel. If the ship has to travel at a high or full speed, fuel consumption increases
disproportionately to the increase in velocity. A well-balanced itinerary does not require the cruise
to operate at full speed but rather allows for a fuel efficient pace.
Although the main criteria for selecting ports will likely be based on the tourism attractions in their
surroundings, this choice also affects how waste will be managed and separated, depending on the
facilities available in each port. This should be taken into consideration when planning itineraries
and priority given to ports with proper waste management facilities, as well as shoreside electricity,
whenever possible. Excursions offered in each port should also be analysed to give preference to
tours that have more limited impact on the environment, e.g., walking tours preferred over those that
require motorised transportation.
3.10 Innovation and fleet improvement
There should be a clear mandate from management to take into account sustainability criteria in the
conceptualisation, planning and implementation phase of new river cruise ships and major
refurbishment programmes.
Initially, this implies a systematic scanning of available technologies, materials and designs that
reduce environmental impacts. Communication and an exchange of ideas among different
departments should be encouraged, bringing together management, designers, nautical directors,
engineers, captains, and hotel managers to discuss the implication of each change or innovation for
their area of responsibility before final decisions are made. When large investments are identified,
thorough cost scenarios should be developed to study short, medium and long-term savings
resulting from the employment of environmentally friendly technology.
Sustainability considerations should not only refer to the environmental impact caused by a
particular technological device, but also include aspects such as quality, reliability, serviceability and
user-friendliness. The company should also monitor all ships and benchmark performance and
sustainability indicators to get actual data to inform future investment decisions. The company
should continuously monitor new technological developments to remain aware of the best solutions
on the market.
29
3.11 Legal frameworks
There are many aspects to compliance with the legal frameworks that river cruise industry faces:
the operation of vessels, health and safety regulations, waterways, ports, coordination amongst
countries, as well as environmental and commercial aspects. Some of these legal aspects affect
river cruise companies directly, while others are more indirectly linked to the overall conditions
under which river cruise companies operate.
Legal frameworks exist on different levels: the port, for specific rivers or even certain sections,
national and international levels. This complex web of overlapping regulations, as abstract as it
may seem, clearly does contribute to the overall sustainability of rivers and the commercial entities
which operate on them.
As previously mentioned, one important aspect of an EMS (section 3.8), is to assure compliance
with environmental laws and regulations.
Ports
Each port has its own specific regulation and fees. This might concern, for example, regulations
where a cruise ship can moor (in some cases, in the city centre; in other cases, in an industrial area
on the outskirts of town), the fees to be paid (for example, for shorepower, if available) and the
availability of waste management facilities, such as different containers for different types of waste.
Finally, some port areas do not allow the discharge of treated wastewater into the port basin.
River-specific regulatory frameworks: the example of Europe
River cruising in Europe is concentrated on a few main waterways (for example the Danube, the
Rhine and the Moselle) and is governed by ordinances issued by river commissions. The European
rivers are discussed here as an example of river-specific regulatory frameworks.
By way of example, an overview of the environmental legal framework on three European rivers are
given on the next page.
30
Rhine
The International Commission for the Protection of the Rhine seeks to
environmentally protect the Rhine and all of its tributaries. Even though significant
advances in the protection of the river have been made, the commission is still
working on reducing the impact of inland vessels in various areas, such as;
• reducing the danger of intentional or non-intentional contamination;
• waves disturbing fragile ecological systems along the shore; and,
• turbidity of water through ship propellers, along with swirling up of
sediment which contributes to spreading of foreign animal and plant
species.
The Central Commission for the Navigation of the Rhine has a regulatory
framework spanning four areas
1. traffic regulations;
2. technical requirements;
3. personnel executing nautical functions; and,
4. transportation of dangerous goods.
The regulations covering these four areas are applicable for all countries that the
Rhine flows through.
Additionally, as is the case with other rivers, certain sections of the river require
captains to hold specific patents to ensure safe navigation.
Moselle
The Moselle Commission founded by France, Germany and Luxembourg
establishes a regulatory framework with a special emphasis on safety regulations.
This includes the Moselle Waterway Policy Ordinance for navigation on the
Moselle River. The commission also deals with construction projects such as the
lifting of bridges or the doubling of locks.
The Moselle Commission cooperates with the International Commissions for the
Protection of the Moselle and the Saar (IKSMS), which aim, among other aspects,
to safeguard water quality and prevent accidents.
Danube
The International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River has been
established by the Danube River Protection Convention, the overall legal
instrument for co-operation on transboundary water management in the Danube
River Basin.
It is an international body dealing with river basin management which focuses on
sustainable water management including the reduction of contamination and
surface / ground water conservation
Another body, the Danube Commission has the following areas of intervention:
• establishment of a uniform system of traffic regulations;
• creating a regulatory framework concerning the river customs and sanitary
inspection; and,
• publishing sailing directions, nautical charts and atlases for navigation.
31
National
Each country has national legislation that affects river cruising in a number of aspects. While
national legislation is often aligned with river-specific or international regulatory frameworks, some
differences exist, for example, between the ten EU countries and non-EU countries that border the
Danube River. Each river cruise company must be familiar with the current and evolving national
legislation in each country to be able to comply with these standards.
International
A number of international agreements exist, such as the EU Water Framework Directive, which aim
to protect the biological quality of water bodies and monitor chemical contamination. Other
examples of EU legislation include the Council regulation 1356/96/EC on common rules applicable
to the transport of goods or passengers by inland waterway between member states; directive
2008/68/EC on the inland transport of dangerous goods; or directive 2000/59/EC on port reception
facilities for ship generated waste and cargo residues.
The vast number of laws and regulations affecting the international business of river cruising is not
within the remit of this guide. It is clear that constant monitoring of the relevant legislation is needed,
ideally by a designated person or department in charge of assuring compliance.
Another important area of legislation concerns food safety. The internationally known and accepted
hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP), which represents a preventive approach to
food safety from EU legislation since 2004 (EC regulation 852/2004) and also provide guidelines for
dealing with food waste. Complying with this legislation represents standard procedure among river
cruise companies today.
doc_347460824.pdf
Often referred to as 'floating hotels', river cruise ships can apply many best practices from the hotel industry to its guest cabins, restaurants and housekeeping. National and international regulations prescribe mandatory health and safety, security and environmental actions, and the cruise industry itself is working on voluntary sustainability certifications.
6
3. Operational management of river cruise ships
3.1 Overview
Often referred to as ‘floating hotels’, river cruise ships can apply many best practices from the hotel
industry to its guest cabins, restaurants and housekeeping. National and international regulations
prescribe mandatory health and safety, security and environmental actions, and the cruise industry
itself is working on voluntary sustainability certifications (such as Green Globe).
River cruise ships share many of the same characteristics as their land-based equivalents - they
contain features to accommodate and entertain and relax guests, serve food and drink, all in
comfort. Gym and spa facilities are not uncommon on modern vessels. To achieve this ships
require, kitchens, bars, restaurants, food and beverage storage and staff accommodation. The
whole ship will be supplied by heating, cooling, lighting, potable water, solid and liquid waste
facilities.
In contrast to land-based accommodation, river cruise ships have several unique characteristics.
Unless the ship is docked, it is not connected to mains electricity, potable water and sewerage
which therefore requires that these are stocked onboard within its limited confines or it has the
means to produce or treat them itself.
In addition, unless utilising electricity from solar panels or using sails, the ship must store enough
energy in the form of fuel, for propulsion.
Another unique factor of a river cruise ship is that it operates in relatively sensitive environment.
Contamination in rivers migrates very quickly and, in contrast to a cruise ship in the middle of the
ocean, contaminants could quickly impact on riverbank side receptors such as plants, terrestrial
fauna and humans.
The design, operation and maintenance of the ship as a transport vessel adds additional layers of
complexity. During the course of a cruise these will alter with the national regulations of each
country the ship passes through, in addition to international and European Union (EU) regulations
that govern all vessels.
In this section of the best practice guide, seven main topics associated with resource efficiency in
river cruising operational management are covered:
1. Monitoring
2. Energy
3. Water
4. Wastewater
5. Waste
6. Communications
7. Environmental Management System.
For each topic a brief summary is offered of the potential impacts, the rationale for best practice and
suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
Before starting to plan how to improve particular sustainability aspects of river cruise operations it
would be well worth researching the current situation, if not already done. The checklist provided in
appendix 1, though not exhaustive, will help with that task.
7
3.2 Monitoring
In order to achieve improved resource efficiency and sustainability on river cruise ships, a
monitoring system should be established, together with a preventive maintenance system. This is
usually the responsibility of the Chief Engineer onboard. The aim is to allow the company to;
• establish a performance baseline of water, energy use and waste production;
• determine long-term trends;
• set targets for improvements;
• asses performance against those targets; and,
• identify problems as soon as they occur.
Monitoring involves gathering and analysis of key information on a regular basis. This starts with a
‘baseline’ - the initial measurement or calculation used as a basis for comparison with future data.
There are many potential measurement points and data sources for water, waste and energy that
can be used to set up, or improve an existing, monitoring system, (see appendix 2). Existing
documentation and logs can often be used as a source for this type of data. This type of data can
be automated and communicated between ships and the company head office using specialised
marine management software, for example, MXSuite software produced by Mastex
(www.mastex.nl).
Indices of water or energy use should be used to set targets and track progress. Total consumption
indicators can be used, or divided by a relevant denominator (such as monthly guest night
occupancy). The self-assessment checklist (see Appendix I) can serve as starting point. More
guidelines, videos and tools are available on the Travel Foundation’s website;
www.thetravelfoundation.org.
Monitoring engine performance Temperature log
A preventive maintenance programme should be in place to ensure that all equipment is working
properly and efficiently at all times, including the following key elements:
• servicing of equipment to manufacturer’s recommendations;
• leak detection and repair;
8
• checking the conditions of seals, e.g. refrigerator door seals;
• cleaning, e.g. condenser coils;
• proper operation of thermostats;
• checking regularly for wear and tear on valves and pumps;
• carrying out pressure testing of pipelines and tanks, as appropriate, using approved testing
procedures and contractors;
• calibration of metering and dosing systems regularly to avoid overuse of cleaning chemicals;
• application of appropriate corrosion protection metal tanks, vessels and pipe work; and,
• checking and, where necessary, replacing critical items as they approach the end of their
predicted life expectancy to avoid failure and leaks.
These elements are covered in more detail in each of the following sections on energy, water,
wastewater and solid waste.
3.3 Energy
In this section, energy use is discussed, including the potential impacts, the rationale for best
practice and suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
3.3.1 What are the issues?
Greenhouse gases produced by fossil fuel combustion are a significant contributor to climate
change, therefore a business that minimises the use of energy is acting responsibly in this regard.
Other by products of combustion have the potential to impact on local and regional air quality.
Fuel is a major cost for river cruise companies, fuel prices have risen significantly in recent years
and continuity of supply is not guaranteed.
Putting in place environmental performance measures can lower greenhouse emissions and other
emissions to air, all whilst reducing costs and reducing risk.
Electrical energy on river ships is generally provided by two sources that are often used in
combination: onboard generators and shoreside electrical power.
Shoreside power is used when a ship is at berth and its main and auxiliary engines are turned off.
Using the onboard generators will be more expensive than using shoreside power when it is
available (depending on the rates in the port) ) and produces more emissions to air and noise locally.
Fuel for propulsion is the other major contributor to energy consumption on a ship. Whilst many
factors influence fuel consumption (such as river water flow, going upstream or downstream, traffic
at locks and itinerary requirements), an inefficient cruising style, poorly-planned itineraries, lack of
maintenance and not utilising modern engines and other aspects of ship design will contribute to
high fuel use.
Energy costs can be significantly reduced by monitoring energy consumption, investing in the most
up-to-date technology, establishing energy-saving procedures, training staff, raising awareness of
guests, and making good use of existing port facilities.
9
3.3.2 What should be done?
During the periodic refitting of a ship, modern technology should be installed to ensure optimal
energy consumption. Staff should be trained to follow energy-saving procedures in all areas.
Guests should be made aware of opportunities for saving energy on a voluntary basis, as part of
welcome sessions or through signs in the appropriate places.
Careful planning will help make optimum use of port facilities and establish efficient itineraries to
reduce fuel consumption. Captains should also be trained to employ a fuel-saving cruising style,
taking into account relevant factors, such as the current river water level or locks times.
The following measures will help reduce energy consumption onboard:
Install and monitor of sub-meters in key areas of the ship to allow for monitoring of energy
consumption by individual ship area, such as kitchens, and thus give a greater
understanding of ship performance and more precise location of problems should they occur.
Install low-wattage, energy-saving LED lamps. Typically, LED bulbs use less energy and
need to be replaced much less often than an equivalent incandescent or CFL bulb, saving
cost and environmental impact over its lifetime. Use the lowest wattage feasible for each
environment (restaurant, bar, aisles, guest cabins, guest bathrooms). Figures 3.1 and 3.2
show typical energy consumption and service life of different types of lamps, making evident
the benefits of LED lamps.
Figure 3.1: Typical amount of light
produced by watt of power
Figure 3.2: Typical service life of lamps
Data Source: Guidelines for Environmental Sustainability in Hotels, TUI Travel PLC, March 2011
Use differentiated management of lighting through switchboards that allow for partial
dimming or switching off of lights in public areas, such as the restaurant or bars.
10
LED lighting in onboard restaurant Sliding door sensor regulating A/C
Install pipes (hot water and air conditioning) to reduce heat loss.
Check that rubber seals are in good repair for all refrigerated rooms, refrigerators and
freezers.
Implement room key card systems and movement sensors to control heating, ventilation,
and air conditioning (HVAC) energy consumption and lighting in guest cabins and other
areas while guests are absent.
Install sensors at sliding window doors that will turn off the air conditioning (AC) when
opened.
Use modern energy-efficient appliances such as laundry machines, dishwashers,
cooking heaters. Take into account reliability
Take into account reliability and environmental considerations in purchasing decisions
when replacing equipment. A good opportunity for this is during and routine
refurbishments.
During winter storage, mooring or refitting of ships, use shorepower where possible or
share generators between ships from the same company.
Maintain digital records of planned maintenance and monitoring records of all equipment
onboard to allow long-term performance reviews and more fuel-efficient operation of the
ship.
Use shorepower wherever available. Contrary to the ship’s generator that provides
power at a certain level independently from the electrical devices that are in operation on
the ship, shorepower is always provided in accordance with the actual power
requirements at any given time. Additionally, shorepower helps reduce greenhouse gas
emissions as it is generally more efficiently produced.
Encourage those ports that do not yet offer hook-up to shorepower to do so, possibly in
conjunction with other river cruise companies.
Use laundry machines, dishwashers and appliances at full capacity/load.
11
Onboard washing machine at full capacity Typical shoreside power connection
Where possible use small pop-up toasters, rather than conveyer toasters.
Establish clear procedures and train staff to reduce energy consumption of the HVAC
systems, lighting in guest cabins and public areas, and other electrical devices, by providing
guidelines on when they should be turned off, e.g. when guests are not occupying the cabin,
or when public areas during the night should be dimmed.
Within large rooms install a lighting system that allow for dimming in the unused areas.
Create awareness amongst guests about the ways they can reduce energy consumption
when not in their room, such as;
o switching off lights, TV and other electrical devices;
o turning off the air conditioning and suggesting a reasonable thermostat temperature,
o drawing curtains to avoid sunlight heating-up the room.
3.3.3 Fuel consumption for propulsion
Fuel for propulsion is a very important aspect of energy consumption of a river cruise ship and so
represents a significant opportunity for making efficiency gains. The following measures for
reducing fuel use should be considered:
Set up fuel meters in the wheelhouse that allow captains to optimise their cruising style, for
example by avoiding high cruising speeds that are not required to meet the planned itinerary.
Establish indicators to monitor cruising styles, benchmarking fuel consumption for
comparable journeys to measure and manage fuel consumption patterns.
Establish a preventive monitoring and maintenance system for engines and generators
according the to the manufacturer’s service schedule to help prevent, and quickly resolve,
mechanical performance issues that could increase fuel consumption.
Train captains to adopt a fuel-efficient cruising style.
12
Fuel meter in wheelhouse Fuel meter in engine room
Design itineraries in such a way that travelling at maximum speed is unnecessary
Establish a minimum fuel use per kilometre specification when commissioning new ship
designs.
Install up-to-date fuel-efficient engines and generators.
Use engine and generators with a generating capacity matched to the needs of the ship.
3.3.4 Emissions to air
Emissions to air are usually not measured directly but instead calculated as a function of fuel
consumption, multiplying the total diesel consumed (kg) by published emission factors (such as
greenhouse gases) or by data provided by the engine manufacturer.
Strategies to reduce emissions are the same as those to conserve fuel, but with the addition of:
Compliance with all applicable legal regulations concerning emissions.
Installation of state of the art particulate filter technology.
3.4 Water
In this section, water use is discussed, including the potential impacts, the rationale for best practice
and suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
3.4.1 What are the issues?
Clean water is a precious resource and it is important to use it sparingly. The energy used to pump,
clean and heat water also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Contaminated water has the
potential to pollute the environment if released.
Minimising its use helps to;
• ensure continuity of future supply, protect natural river and groundwater sources;
13
• reduces the need to build new dams;
• care for fresh water habitats for local wildlife and migrating waterfowl;
• cut down on associated greenhouse gas emissions; and,
• create less wastewater.
Cruise ships commonly stock potable water from shore to be used for all requirements. The
requirement to store both fresh and wastewater takes up considerable space.
Significant amounts of water are used for a wide range of purposes onboard a river cruise ship -
from housekeeping, laundry, and kitchens to guest and staff showers, taps and toilets, to exterior
deck and window cleaning. In some cases, river cruise ships can have a swimming pool, increasing
water consumption.
By understanding water use onboard, monitoring its use and working towards reduction targets the
river cruise company will both save costs (in its purchase and treatment) and its impact on the
environment.
3.4.2 What should be done?
The total volume of water stocked for each journey should be measured and recorded in litres. Over
time baseline water consumption can be established and future use tracked against it.
The following is a list of some of the most important water-saving techniques that should be applied
in guest and crew cabins and public area, as appropriate:
Install water sub meters in various strategic points, such as the supply for the kitchen, so
that a more detailed picture of water consumption onboard can be built up and problems
detected at an early stage.
Fit low-flush (vacuum) toilets with low capacity cisterns.
Fit taps with flow controllers such as aerators, restrictors or percussion (push) taps.
Fit showers with flow restrictors or special low-flow showerheads.
14
Inefficient high-volume
toilet cisterns Trigger nozzle to minimise water wastage
Photograph courtesy of Daniel Oines
Train staff members to report leaks and drips to the engineering department. The
housekeepers are ideal people to do this on a daily basis so that problems can be rectified
quickly.
Put in place a towel and bed linen reuse programme with staff training and instructions to
guests.
Separate and pre-treat soiled laundry items to avoid re-washing.
Load washing machines and dishwashers to capacity before use. Where frequent small
loads occur (such as guest’s self-service laundry) make smaller machines available.
Review the efficiency of installed washing machines and dishwashers and replace with
modern and more water efficient models during refitting.
Fit hoses with trigger nozzles so that they cannot be left running unintended (both those on-
deck as well as for pre-washing dishes).
Where possible, use of river (instead of potable) water for deck cleaning.
Backwash pool sand filters based on need with visual windows or back pressure, rather than
a fixed daily schedule.
Guest bathrooms are one of the most water-intensive areas on river cruise ships, so if the fittings
aren't already efficient, it is an area with great potential to make cost-savings and improve
environmental performance.
The water section of the Travel Foundation’s Greener Accommodations Guide explains how to
calculate water flow rates in more detail, as well as the impact and payback periods. Simple flow
tests can be carried out with buckets of a known volume and a stopwatch and then compared to
best practice standards for hotel accommodation
5
: See the webpage at the link for more details:http://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/green_business_tools/greener_accommodations/water
[Alternatively:http://tinyurl.com/cermrhg ]
5
Travelife www.travelife.org is one of several international certification schemes. It was designed by the Association of British Tour
Operators (ABTA) for the travel industry with the aim of helping to improve the management of hotel social and environmental
issues, by complying with the requirements of 99 sustainability criteria (criteria currently under review).
Showerheads - Showerheads that
of water but also unnecessary amounts of energy in heating that water.
replaced with low-flow showerheads or fitted with effective water conservation devices, such as flow
restrictors. Low-flow showerheads are specifically designed to generate a satisfying shower flow
while using only 8 to 10 litres/min.
Taps - Where high flow rates are not required,
litres/min in cabins, public and employee bathrooms and 10 litres/min in bar, kitchen and laundry
sinks. The flow output of inefficient taps can be reduc
Installing aerators that generate the desired maximum flow output (this includes replacing
aerators that produce excessively high flow).
Installing a flow restrictor in the connection between the aerator and the tap or in the pipes
that supply water to the tap.
Partially closing the shut-
water to the tap. This measure however is generally less effective and yields lower savings
than the other measures described above.
Automatic tap in guest cabin Low
Toilet cisterns - Toilet flush water volume
following in mind. This can be achieved by
Having a vacuum system (commonly aboard ships). Vacuum systems, if set
tend to be more water-efficient than siphon or dual
The size of the cistern should be six litres or contain a displacement device.
Toilets should be dual-flush models, which use a partial flush for liquid wastes and a full
flush of six litres or less.
Housekeeping staff often flush the toilet several times during the course of cleaning rooms. The
supervisor may even flush once more on checking, simpl
policy” to the room cleaning procedure will save significant amounts of water every day.
3.5 Wastewater
In this section the focus is on wastewater, with a brief summary provided on the potential impacts,
the rationale for best practice and suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
that use a high flow rate of water not only use unnecessary amounts
of water but also unnecessary amounts of energy in heating that water. They should either be
flow showerheads or fitted with effective water conservation devices, such as flow
flow showerheads are specifically designed to generate a satisfying shower flow
n.
Where high flow rates are not required, taps should be limited to a
litres/min in cabins, public and employee bathrooms and 10 litres/min in bar, kitchen and laundry
sinks. The flow output of inefficient taps can be reduced by:
Installing aerators that generate the desired maximum flow output (this includes replacing
aerators that produce excessively high flow).
Installing a flow restrictor in the connection between the aerator and the tap or in the pipes
ter to the tap.
-off valves that are generally installed on the pipes that convey
water to the tap. This measure however is generally less effective and yields lower savings
than the other measures described above.
Automatic tap in guest cabin Low-flow showerhead in guest cabin
water volume should be limited to maximum of
following in mind. This can be achieved by
Having a vacuum system (commonly aboard ships). Vacuum systems, if set
efficient than siphon or dual-flush systems.
The size of the cistern should be six litres or contain a displacement device.
flush models, which use a partial flush for liquid wastes and a full
Housekeeping staff often flush the toilet several times during the course of cleaning rooms. The
supervisor may even flush once more on checking, simply out of habit. Implementing a “one flush
policy” to the room cleaning procedure will save significant amounts of water every day.
In this section the focus is on wastewater, with a brief summary provided on the potential impacts,
rationale for best practice and suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
15
use a high flow rate of water not only use unnecessary amounts
They should either be
flow showerheads or fitted with effective water conservation devices, such as flow
flow showerheads are specifically designed to generate a satisfying shower flow
taps should be limited to a maximum output of 6
litres/min in cabins, public and employee bathrooms and 10 litres/min in bar, kitchen and laundry
Installing aerators that generate the desired maximum flow output (this includes replacing
Installing a flow restrictor in the connection between the aerator and the tap or in the pipes
off valves that are generally installed on the pipes that convey
water to the tap. This measure however is generally less effective and yields lower savings
flow showerhead in guest cabin
should be limited to maximum of six litres, with the
Having a vacuum system (commonly aboard ships). Vacuum systems, if set-up correctly
The size of the cistern should be six litres or contain a displacement device.
flush models, which use a partial flush for liquid wastes and a full
Housekeeping staff often flush the toilet several times during the course of cleaning rooms. The
y out of habit. Implementing a “one flush
policy” to the room cleaning procedure will save significant amounts of water every day.
In this section the focus is on wastewater, with a brief summary provided on the potential impacts,
rationale for best practice and suggestions on how to reduce these impacts.
16
3.5.1 What are the issues?
Wastewater management is important for three main reasons:
1. Discharges of wastewater into waterways, depending on the nature of the discharge, the
sensitivity of the location and the frequency of discharges, can have serious negative
environmental and public health impacts and damage the responsible party’s reputation
2. River cruise ships, just as with any inland waterway vessel, must comply with legislation on
inland waterways. National and/or regional legislation may mandate the segregation of
wastewater streams, use of holding tanks, disposal via port facilities and parameters for
wastewater discharge into waterways (see section 3.10 legal frameworks). Additionally,
compliance with EU regulations is required, such as those that stipulate that ships must be
equipped with treatment devices to prevent the discharge of untreated or inadequately treated
wastewater.
3. Producing and treating wastewater has a financial cost. A given volume of wastewater
represents the various costs that have gone into making it, e.g. purchasing metered potable
water, use of cleaning chemicals and water heating. Wastewater treatment systems are not
cost-free to purchase and maintain and greater volumes of wastewater will require larger and
possibly more complex equipment.
Three terms are commonly used to distinguish the main types of wastewater streams created on
cruise ships: ‘blackwater’, ‘greywater’, and ‘bilge water’. These streams must be strictly segregated
onboard in order to ensure proper and efficient treatment and disposal:
• Blackwater is sewage (toilet waste which contains harmful bacteria and viruses). An estimated
20-40 litres per person is produced per day (Butt 2007). Cruise ships use treatment devices
with physical, chemical and/or biological processes to allow effluent to be treated and
discharged with characteristics that are similar to effluents from wastewater treatment plants on
land (Sweeting & Wayne 2006).
• Greywater is wastewater from sinks, showers and washing machines (which contains a variety
of substances including detergents, oils and greases, and food waste) and typically the greatest
source of liquid waste generated by cruise ships
• Bilge water is any water spilt in the interior, or ship wash water on the exterior, that collects in a
tank in lowest part of the ship and is often contaminated with oil.
3.5.2 What should be done?
Any comprehensive strategy should first focus on reducing the volume of wastewater produced in
the first place. Minimising water use (see section 3.4) will reduce the amount of wastewater
generated onboard, thereby lowering both the costs of wastewater handing and treatment and
minimising environment risk.
River cruise ships should have the most up-to-date treatment technology and measures in place to
ensure that wastewater discharge meets or exceeds acceptable quality limits within the law. This
includes related management such as handling sludge and backwash from filtration, separated
water from oil/water separator, and preventive maintenance such as replacing filters. In terms of
best practice, considerable advances have been made in shipboard technology sector for
wastewater purification over the last decade and the most effective and efficient equipment should
be sought.
Four main strategies to reduce wastewater costs and risks are outline below.
1. Reduce the quantity of wastewater
Reduce the use of water to reduce the volume of wastewater produced, as outlined in
section 3.4.
2. Reduce the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater before discharge into the river or
sewerage system
Use state-of-the art on-bard treatment systems.
Enzymes used to break down bacteria in
for an onboard treatment system
Reduce the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater by reducing the use of cleaning
chemicals. If using concentrated cleaning products an automatic electronic dosing system
will lower the volumes used (as humans typically pour more than the minimum requirement).
Clean the bilge water using "passive" methods such as
to break down the hydrocarbons i
3. Improve the treatability of water
Procure more readily biodegradable products certified by independent organisations such as
Green Seal, Environmental Choice, GreenGuard, EU Flower and Nordic Swan.
4. Assure secure containment and handling of wastewater
Ensure that wastewater is securely stored (no leaks), clearly labelled (to avoid accidental
mixing of incompatible chemicals in the water), has secondary containment where applicable.
Include all waste water storage, transfer and treatment equipment are included in the
maintenance programme.
Make sure that staff are trained in the handling and correct handling and disposal of liquid
waste.
Four main strategies to reduce wastewater costs and risks are outline below.
1. Reduce the quantity of wastewater
Reduce the use of water to reduce the volume of wastewater produced, as outlined in
2. Reduce the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater before discharge into the river or
bard treatment systems.
Enzymes used to break down bacteria in Automatic dosing system for cleaning
chemicals
e the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater by reducing the use of cleaning
chemicals. If using concentrated cleaning products an automatic electronic dosing system
volumes used (as humans typically pour more than the minimum requirement).
Clean the bilge water using "passive" methods such as bioremediation
to break down the hydrocarbons in the water into harmless by-products.
3. Improve the treatability of water
Procure more readily biodegradable products certified by independent organisations such as
Green Seal, Environmental Choice, GreenGuard, EU Flower and Nordic Swan.
Assure secure containment and handling of wastewater
Ensure that wastewater is securely stored (no leaks), clearly labelled (to avoid accidental
mixing of incompatible chemicals in the water), has secondary containment where applicable.
water storage, transfer and treatment equipment are included in the
maintenance programme.
Make sure that staff are trained in the handling and correct handling and disposal of liquid
17
Reduce the use of water to reduce the volume of wastewater produced, as outlined in
2. Reduce the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater before discharge into the river or
Automatic dosing system for cleaning
e the concentration of contaminants in the wastewater by reducing the use of cleaning
chemicals. If using concentrated cleaning products an automatic electronic dosing system
volumes used (as humans typically pour more than the minimum requirement).
bioremediation, which uses bacteria
products.
Procure more readily biodegradable products certified by independent organisations such as
Green Seal, Environmental Choice, GreenGuard, EU Flower and Nordic Swan.
Ensure that wastewater is securely stored (no leaks), clearly labelled (to avoid accidental
mixing of incompatible chemicals in the water), has secondary containment where applicable.
water storage, transfer and treatment equipment are included in the
Make sure that staff are trained in the handling and correct handling and disposal of liquid
18
Check that wastewater transfer equipment is suitably designed and sized for the job.
Put in place emergency procedures and spill containment equipment and that they are well-
understood and practiced.
Collect bilge water in suitable oil/water separators and dispose at ports or through
specialised oil separator vessels with disposal facilities for this type of waste.
Electronic dosage system Sign advising about onboard water-saving technology
Any strategy to reduce wastewater should always focus first and foremost on the reduction of water
consumption. Once all possibilities have been exhausted in this regard, wastewater minimisation is
essentially a technological issue, not one determined primarily by staff or guest behaviour, and
should be optimised using the most advanced equipment and bio-chemicals available for treatment.
3.6 Solid waste
This section explains the hidden costs of solid waste, how minimisation of solid waste is less about
technology and treatment and more about avoiding becoming waste in the first place and their
subsequent handling, plus actions river cruise companies should take to achieve this.
3.6.1 What are the issues?
The production of materials and their processing once onboard the ship all use finite natural
resources in the form of raw materials, energy supplies and fresh water. If poorly managed, waste
has the potential to pollute the natural environment.
Producing and handling solid waste also has a financial cost. Taking the example of food waste,
the cost of that waste is much more than the obvious cost of disposal charges. The hidden costs
are the costs of the ingredients, packaging, transportation, refrigeration, labour for preparation,
energy and water for cooking and cleaning, plus the labour cost of handling it once it is waste.
In addition, if a river cruising company has to factor in large quantities of extra stock and space to
store it, plus space to hold waste before disposal, all because of excess waste production, this
represents additional storage space onboard; space that might otherwise be more profitably used
for additional or larger rooms for other purposes.
An average cruise ship will generate an estimated minimum of 1 kg of solid waste per day per
passenger (Sweeting and Wayne 2003). A large proportion of that waste will be inert but other
fractions of the waste will not be. For example, food waste is putrescible which can create
leachates (liquid waste) harmful to aquatic life and nuisance odours. Certain solid wastes, such as
fluorescent light bulbs, contain hazardous substances which need to be handled acco
With limited storage space onboard, river cruise ship operations depend on frequent access to
adequate waste reception facilities on shore and, where port companies do not provide a disposal
service themselves, contracts with specialised waste co
Variance in waste management facilities at ports, and different regulations in each country can pose
challenges in terms of waste management.
It is not only important not only manage waste for the safety and comfort
protect fragile river habitats, but equally to dispose of waste onshore properly.
The disposal of hazardous chemicals and solid waste contaminated with oil, such as oily rags and
used oil filters, is subject to strict legal national
monitored and logged in detail, for example by means of the oil record book that is obligatory in
many countries in Europe.
3.6.2 What should be done?
Strategies to optimise waste management include the “three
well as other options, specified in the waste hierarchy (Figure 3.3 below). The most preferable
option – at the top - is prevention, avoiding solid waste altogether; while the least preferable option
is disposal – at the bottom – that if necessary, should be done properly employing adequate
facilities. All other options appear in between, in decreasing order of preference.
Figure 3.3: The waste hierarchy
In general, the measures taken towards the top of the waste
savings and reduce negative environmental impacts and those towards its base, the least.
An average cruise ship will generate an estimated minimum of 1 kg of solid waste per day per
passenger (Sweeting and Wayne 2003). A large proportion of that waste will be inert but other
e will not be. For example, food waste is putrescible which can create
leachates (liquid waste) harmful to aquatic life and nuisance odours. Certain solid wastes, such as
fluorescent light bulbs, contain hazardous substances which need to be handled acco
With limited storage space onboard, river cruise ship operations depend on frequent access to
adequate waste reception facilities on shore and, where port companies do not provide a disposal
service themselves, contracts with specialised waste companies to dispose of hazardous waste.
Variance in waste management facilities at ports, and different regulations in each country can pose
challenges in terms of waste management.
It is not only important not only manage waste for the safety and comfort
protect fragile river habitats, but equally to dispose of waste onshore properly.
The disposal of hazardous chemicals and solid waste contaminated with oil, such as oily rags and
used oil filters, is subject to strict legal national and international regulations and needs to be
monitored and logged in detail, for example by means of the oil record book that is obligatory in
Strategies to optimise waste management include the “three Rs”, Reduce -
well as other options, specified in the waste hierarchy (Figure 3.3 below). The most preferable
is prevention, avoiding solid waste altogether; while the least preferable option
that if necessary, should be done properly employing adequate
facilities. All other options appear in between, in decreasing order of preference.
In general, the measures taken towards the top of the waste hierarchy will realise the greatest cost
savings and reduce negative environmental impacts and those towards its base, the least.
19
An average cruise ship will generate an estimated minimum of 1 kg of solid waste per day per
passenger (Sweeting and Wayne 2003). A large proportion of that waste will be inert but other
e will not be. For example, food waste is putrescible which can create
leachates (liquid waste) harmful to aquatic life and nuisance odours. Certain solid wastes, such as
fluorescent light bulbs, contain hazardous substances which need to be handled accordingly.
With limited storage space onboard, river cruise ship operations depend on frequent access to
adequate waste reception facilities on shore and, where port companies do not provide a disposal
mpanies to dispose of hazardous waste.
Variance in waste management facilities at ports, and different regulations in each country can pose
It is not only important not only manage waste for the safety and comfort of passengers and to
protect fragile river habitats, but equally to dispose of waste onshore properly.
The disposal of hazardous chemicals and solid waste contaminated with oil, such as oily rags and
and international regulations and needs to be
monitored and logged in detail, for example by means of the oil record book that is obligatory in
- Reuse - Recycle, as
well as other options, specified in the waste hierarchy (Figure 3.3 below). The most preferable
is prevention, avoiding solid waste altogether; while the least preferable option
that if necessary, should be done properly employing adequate
facilities. All other options appear in between, in decreasing order of preference.
hierarchy will realise the greatest cost
savings and reduce negative environmental impacts and those towards its base, the least.
20
Prevention – This is preventing waste from being created in the first place. Reduce the
generation of waste that could not be prevented by ordering the minimum amounts of goods
required, come in minimal packaging and goods that last longer.
Reuse – Use materials repeatedly. For example, use suppliers who can deliver food in
crates that can be returned and used over and over again, use refillable soap containers
rather than individually wrapped bars. Cleaning, repairing and refurbishing also falls into this
category.
Recycling – Recycling is turning waste into new materials and products. To aid this, ensure
proper separation of recyclable materials onboard and offload ports that can adequately
forward them to recycling facilities.
Recovery – Recovery refers to the recovering of energy embodied in the waste by
incineration or anaerobic digestion to produce energy or fuels. This is preferable to disposal
at a landfill that does not use energy/fuel recovery techniques.
Disposal – This is disposing to landfill without energy/fuel recovery. Even with this least
preferred option, there are possibilities of minimisation prior to disposal, for example
reducing the volume by compacting solid waste, e.g. glass crushers for wine bottles. This
increases the opportunity to hold on to recyclable waste until a port with proper recycling
facilities is reached.
Solid waste storage onboard requires adequate space, such as rooms for food waste with sealed
doors that prevent the escape of any odours or occurrence of pest, or even cooled waste storage
rooms in hotter climates, to ensure the comfort of guests. Typically, different types of waste are
stored in a number of locations on the river cruise ship before being disposed of at a port.
Waste disposal should make optimum use of port facilities through: a) separation of different types
of waste, and b) keeping hold of recyclable waste until a port that is able to send the waste off for
recycling is reached.
Creating and implementing a Waste Management Plan (WMP) will be an aid to ships in better
managing their waste minimisation, handling and removal in line with the waste hierarchy. A WMP
sets out your priorities and actions for tackling waste in your business. The diagram in Figure 3.4
outlines some example steps and process to do so.
Figure 3.4: Solid Waste Management Process
Source: A Manual for Waste and Water Management, UNEP, 2003
The main steps in developing the WMP are:
21
Complete a solid waste audit: Walk around your ships and ports you use to understand
waste streams onboard and define how they can be measured (see appendix 2 for
measurement point options).
Assess the waste management options for each type of waste in relation to the waste
hierarchy.
Develop the management plan, considering;
• operational structures, procedures and key responsibilities.
• financial costs, benefits and payback time.
• how the different elements will be phased when implemented; and,
• staff training and guest awareness.
Monitor results and review procedures, continuously aiming to improve the process.
More detailed guidance is available from other sources, but below are some examples of the types
of measures that should be implemented in line with the waste hierarchy. Also included and also
include aspects referring to management and communication:
Prevention
Control stock and purchasing policies carefully to avoid over-ordering.
Discuss ways of reducing packages and waste with your main suppliers, making an analysis
of all products regularly purchased. For example, your supplier may be able to make utilise
of reusable plastic boxes for fresh vegetables.
Go paperless wherever possible. Electronic ordering and invoicing systems are
commonplace.
Reduce waste by limiting disposable items such as small packages for food such as jam,
butter, milk etc. where bulk dispensers or containers could be used instead.
Place glass refillable filtered water bottles in guest bedrooms rather than plastic disposable
ones.
Reuse
Use refillable bottles and containers for, shampoo and soap.
Worn out or permanently stained bed linen can be reused to carry laundry instead of
disposable plastic sacks.
Donate obsolete furniture to non-profit organisations that can still make use of it.
22
Refillable soap containers In-room recycling bin arrangement
Recycling
Improve waste separation through the systematic use of colour-coded packs and bins for
different kinds of waste, following a unified system throughout the ship that is explained in
the operations manual and guest welcome pack.
Use garbage bins in guest cabins and other locations with inserts that allow pre-sorting
different types of waste such as food waste, plastic or paper.
List waste reception facilities at each port to support optimal waste disposal management.
This may mean storing a certain type of waste onboard until a port with appropriate facilities
for separation and recycling is reached.
Set-up special bins for receiving used batteries either from guests or staff and set up a
system to dispose at the appropriate shore facilities for hazardous waste from commercial
sources.
Guest and staff bathrooms can be supplied with high-quality recycled toilet paper.
Disposal
Use readily biodegradable soaps and other chemicals where possible.
Separate oil and fat in the kitchen and dispose of separately to wastewater.
Crush cans and bottles to save space.
Use a reputable disposal company – check their credentials.
Staff should be trained to comply with the WMP, assigning specific tasks and responsibilities for
each member. Staff should have knowledge of waste reception and recycling facilities in each port
so that each staff member can cooperate in storing and disposing solid waste accordingly. Training
should also be given so that queries from guests about waste policies will be handled well.
Management and communication:
Train staff to comply with the WMP and how to communicate the policies with guests, should
a situation require it.
Monitor and benchmark solid waste production and disposal route by type of waste (landfill,
recycling, organic, hazardous).
23
Create awareness among guests, sensitising them to the waste policies and the reasons for
them.
3.6.3 Case study: Sustainable Cruise
Sustainable Cruise (www.sustainablecruise.eu) is a project financed by the European programme
LIFE+ aimed at improving waste management efficiency. Currently focused on ocean-going cruise
ships, the lessons learned will still be relevant for river cruises in terms of reducing and recycling
solid waste onboard ships and the re-use or total disposal of residual waste.
The project is experimenting with management models and innovative technologies which meet the
objectives established by the European Directive on waste (Dir. 2008/98/EC), including the so-called
‘3Rs’: Reduce, Re-use and Recycle.
Starting with a pilot project on the Costa Pacifica, a detailed analysis of the waste flows is being
carried out with a focus on three waste categories: biodegradable, packaging and paper. At the end
of the project, innovative solutions for each of these three categories will be proposed. These
solutions will be aimed at the reduction of packaging, transformation of food and paper into
merchandisable by-products, and at increasing the percentage of waste destined for recycling.
The project also aims to develop a new monitoring methodology capable of quantifying the
reduction of emissions (in terms of CO
2
) derived from sustainable management of shipboard waste.
This can contribute to defining and applying the Kyoto climate change objectives to the cruise
sector, and provide the basis for a plan to define new type of certification that can guide future
European regulation in the sector.
3.7 Communications
Once specific steps are being taken towards implementing the best practices outlined in this guide,
a parallel communication strategy should make sure that staff are aware of the changes and
underlying policies, and understand the short, medium and long-term benefits that environmentally
sustainable river cruising will bring.
Beyond staff, communication should also be aimed at guests, so that they also understand they role
that they can play in helping to reduce any negative impact on the environment from tourism.
The Travel Foundation website offers a free range of guides that help businesses to communicate
best practices to both consumers and staff. Visit the communications tool at:http://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/green_business_tools/communications_tool
or:http://tinyurl.com/kyhhhq6
3.7.1 Staff communications and training
If a sustainability policy is to be effective, it has to be credible in a consistent way. For staff to take
ownership of sustainability issues it is important that management is equally committed, setting an
example wherever possible, and that the overriding purpose of the sustainability policy is clear, as
well as the procedures that help reach that goal. Credibility is also very important from a guest’s
point of view. Inconsistency will affect the opinion of guests and lower the morale of staff.
The whitepaper “Survival of the Fittest
number of examples showing the strong correlation between a business´ sustainable practices and
staff engagement. According to Business in the Community (a UK
75% of employees who believe their organisation is focused on sustainable development exhibit
high levels of commitment. CSR is a key driver in staff satisfaction
companies with a strong CSR culture.
improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Here are some essential tips for making sure that staff are committed to mak
Sustainability is not about isolated actions but rather a
decision and the entire company. Management plays an important role in setting an
example and establishing clear guidelines for sustainability policies in a river cruise
operation. This can be accomplished by setting up a
(EMS) (see section 3.8) and having a set of indicators to measure and monitor
environmental performance in an objective manner.
The existence and essence of the EMS should be communicated clearly to all staff through
handbooks, operation manuals and announcements that are posted visibly in key locations
on the ship.
Guest communication
Photograph courtesy of Uniworld Boutique
Annual training events before the main season should cover environmental practices, with
refresher courses offered during the year.
Train staff how to deal with guests when questions arise about environmental policies.
Ask for and take into account ideas
and designing new procedures
and instinctively know what will work and what will not.
As more sustainable solutions sometimes imply
guidelines should be established for any decision involving financial obligations (for example, when
purchasing energy-saving equipment or environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals) vs. the longer
term financial, risk reduction and brand reputation benefits.
Survival of the Fittest” (2012) published by the Travel Foundation highlights a
number of examples showing the strong correlation between a business´ sustainable practices and
staff engagement. According to Business in the Community (a UK-based sustainability charity),
75% of employees who believe their organisation is focused on sustainable development exhibit
high levels of commitment. CSR is a key driver in staff satisfaction – on average 50% higher in
companies with a strong CSR culture. Greater staff engagement also pays dividends in terms of
improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Here are some essential tips for making sure that staff are committed to making
Sustainability is not about isolated actions but rather a basic philosophy underlying every
decision and the entire company. Management plays an important role in setting an
example and establishing clear guidelines for sustainability policies in a river cruise
operation. This can be accomplished by setting up an Environmental Management System
(EMS) (see section 3.8) and having a set of indicators to measure and monitor
environmental performance in an objective manner.
The existence and essence of the EMS should be communicated clearly to all staff through
handbooks, operation manuals and announcements that are posted visibly in key locations
Communicating commitment
courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
Annual training events before the main season should cover environmental practices, with
refresher courses offered during the year.
Train staff how to deal with guests when questions arise about environmental policies.
Ask for and take into account ideas and suggestions from staff at all stages when planning
and designing new procedures - they’re the ones at the ‘coal face’, so will have good ideas
and instinctively know what will work and what will not.
As more sustainable solutions sometimes imply higher costs, if only in the short
guidelines should be established for any decision involving financial obligations (for example, when
saving equipment or environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals) vs. the longer
cial, risk reduction and brand reputation benefits.
24
” (2012) published by the Travel Foundation highlights a
number of examples showing the strong correlation between a business´ sustainable practices and
d sustainability charity),
75% of employees who believe their organisation is focused on sustainable development exhibit
on average 50% higher in
Greater staff engagement also pays dividends in terms of
ing a difference:
basic philosophy underlying every
decision and the entire company. Management plays an important role in setting an
example and establishing clear guidelines for sustainability policies in a river cruise
n Environmental Management System
(EMS) (see section 3.8) and having a set of indicators to measure and monitor
The existence and essence of the EMS should be communicated clearly to all staff through
handbooks, operation manuals and announcements that are posted visibly in key locations
Communicating commitment
Annual training events before the main season should cover environmental practices, with
Train staff how to deal with guests when questions arise about environmental policies.
and suggestions from staff at all stages when planning
they’re the ones at the ‘coal face’, so will have good ideas
higher costs, if only in the short-term, clear
guidelines should be established for any decision involving financial obligations (for example, when
saving equipment or environmentally friendly cleaning chemicals) vs. the longer-
25
Tip: The Travel Foundation has developed a range of training materials that can be integrated
into existing staff training plans. The training toolkit will also help integrate sustainability in to key
business areas – retail, overseas, purchasing, quality, new product development and marketing –
visithttp://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/green_business_tools/staff_training_development
or:http://tinyurl.com/kfzmt8o
Consistency is important for staff trained to separate different types of waste. If waste is observed
to be mixed during port disposal despite staff having previously separated it onboard, staff will be
demotivated to continue with waste separation procedures. Simultaneous efforts with port
authorities to maintain the separation of waste should be pursued and communicated to staff.
Monitoring is another important aspect for communicating any progress to staff. Key performance
Indicators (KPIs) should be clearly communicated to relevant staff. For example, fuel consumption
patterns to captains, household chemical use to hotel managers or energy consumption patterns to
engineers create an enhanced awareness of current environmental performance and trends.
By openly communicating performance data, or making it easily available, the process of
implementing environmentally friendly practices gains transparency and credibility and staff will be
motivated to contribute to improvements.
Positive competition can also help improve sustainability indicators. Reward systems should be set
up to recognise staff contributions to sustainability requirements and procedures, e.g. “employee of
the month”. Staff repeatedly failing to comply with company sustainability policies should face
disciplinary action.
3.7.2 Guest communications
In order to maximise the results of environmental best practice, the active participation of guests is
helpful. Explain to guests how they can make a difference. The focus of the message should be on
the ecological benefits to the local area, rather than the financial benefits of the environmental
programme to the company.
Supplying polite tips to guests on reducing energy use is now routine in hotels across the world –
encouragement to turn off appliances when not in use and to switch off lights and air conditioning
when they vacate their room or cabin. Towel and bed linen reuse programmes, will not only save
water but also energy and cleaning products too. This should be simply explained to clients using a
tent card in the bathroom or electronic display systems. Guests can then decide whether they want
to participate, rather than staff automatically changing towels and linens every day.
26
Explaining environmental measures
In-room TV, another possible
communication channel
Specific measures to create guest awareness include:
Explaining the company philosophy and provide recommendations during orientation
sessions.
Providing recommendations for environmentally friendly behaviour in orientation booklets
available each cabin, as well as through the company TV channel in cabins.
Provide explanatory signs in guest cabins and other areas.
In terms of environmental and cost impacts, it is important to monitor the programme to make sure it
is working properly. For example, the number of towels washed over a given period can easily be
tracked by the housekeeping department. This data can then be used to calculate the average
number of towels used, which should be around 0.7 bath towels per guest night. If it is more than
this, check whether guests have been adequately informed and that housekeeping staff are
complying with the programme.
The Travel Foundation provides advice through its consumer-facing Make Holidays Greener
website that can be shared with guests for creating general awareness and a sense of shared
responsibility (http://www.makeholidaysgreener.org.uk/download-guides
orhttp://tinyurl.com/lgv2zrl ).
3.8 Environmental Management Systems
A common and well-established way for companies to address and minimise its environmental
impacts, manage legal compliance and continuously improve performance, is through an
‘environmental management system’ (EMS).
The Travel Foundation and the waste recycling organisation, WRAP UK, suggest the following key
elements of a typical EMS (and shown in Figure 3.5):
27
Figure 3.5 – Elements of a typical EMS
Source: Your Guide to Environmental Management Systems, WRAP
The following steps lead to the establishment of an EMS:
1. an assessment of how company activities, products, processes and services might affect the
environment,
2. the development of an environmental policy that shows the commitment to environmental
excellence by top management,
3. procedures and environmental improvement programme or action plan,
4. defined roles and responsibilities for all employees with environmental responsibility onboard
- create a staff 'green team',
5. a training and awareness programme,
6. written procedures to control activities with a significant environmental impact,
7. a controlled system of records,
8. periodic auditing to ensure effective operation; and,
9. a formal review by senior management to analyse the objectives achieved and define new
activities for the next year.
Performance against the Management Programme can be measured in a variety of way, such as;
performance against resource efficiency targets.
28
legal compliance,
policy awareness levels amongst staff,
non-conformance issues,
complaints from authorities or other stakeholders, and,
tests of emergency preparedness.
An effective system also ensures good administrative control and provides evidence that internal
procedures are well-managed.
3.9 Itinerary planning
Various aspects of river cruise itineraries influence its environmental impact. This represents
another opportunity for river cruising companies to minimise their environmental impact - by careful
planning of itineraries.
Taking the example of fuel use, and related greenhouse gas emissions, the distance between two
ports and the required journey times between determines the speed at which the river cruise ship
has to travel. If the ship has to travel at a high or full speed, fuel consumption increases
disproportionately to the increase in velocity. A well-balanced itinerary does not require the cruise
to operate at full speed but rather allows for a fuel efficient pace.
Although the main criteria for selecting ports will likely be based on the tourism attractions in their
surroundings, this choice also affects how waste will be managed and separated, depending on the
facilities available in each port. This should be taken into consideration when planning itineraries
and priority given to ports with proper waste management facilities, as well as shoreside electricity,
whenever possible. Excursions offered in each port should also be analysed to give preference to
tours that have more limited impact on the environment, e.g., walking tours preferred over those that
require motorised transportation.
3.10 Innovation and fleet improvement
There should be a clear mandate from management to take into account sustainability criteria in the
conceptualisation, planning and implementation phase of new river cruise ships and major
refurbishment programmes.
Initially, this implies a systematic scanning of available technologies, materials and designs that
reduce environmental impacts. Communication and an exchange of ideas among different
departments should be encouraged, bringing together management, designers, nautical directors,
engineers, captains, and hotel managers to discuss the implication of each change or innovation for
their area of responsibility before final decisions are made. When large investments are identified,
thorough cost scenarios should be developed to study short, medium and long-term savings
resulting from the employment of environmentally friendly technology.
Sustainability considerations should not only refer to the environmental impact caused by a
particular technological device, but also include aspects such as quality, reliability, serviceability and
user-friendliness. The company should also monitor all ships and benchmark performance and
sustainability indicators to get actual data to inform future investment decisions. The company
should continuously monitor new technological developments to remain aware of the best solutions
on the market.
29
3.11 Legal frameworks
There are many aspects to compliance with the legal frameworks that river cruise industry faces:
the operation of vessels, health and safety regulations, waterways, ports, coordination amongst
countries, as well as environmental and commercial aspects. Some of these legal aspects affect
river cruise companies directly, while others are more indirectly linked to the overall conditions
under which river cruise companies operate.
Legal frameworks exist on different levels: the port, for specific rivers or even certain sections,
national and international levels. This complex web of overlapping regulations, as abstract as it
may seem, clearly does contribute to the overall sustainability of rivers and the commercial entities
which operate on them.
As previously mentioned, one important aspect of an EMS (section 3.8), is to assure compliance
with environmental laws and regulations.
Ports
Each port has its own specific regulation and fees. This might concern, for example, regulations
where a cruise ship can moor (in some cases, in the city centre; in other cases, in an industrial area
on the outskirts of town), the fees to be paid (for example, for shorepower, if available) and the
availability of waste management facilities, such as different containers for different types of waste.
Finally, some port areas do not allow the discharge of treated wastewater into the port basin.
River-specific regulatory frameworks: the example of Europe
River cruising in Europe is concentrated on a few main waterways (for example the Danube, the
Rhine and the Moselle) and is governed by ordinances issued by river commissions. The European
rivers are discussed here as an example of river-specific regulatory frameworks.
By way of example, an overview of the environmental legal framework on three European rivers are
given on the next page.
30
Rhine
The International Commission for the Protection of the Rhine seeks to
environmentally protect the Rhine and all of its tributaries. Even though significant
advances in the protection of the river have been made, the commission is still
working on reducing the impact of inland vessels in various areas, such as;
• reducing the danger of intentional or non-intentional contamination;
• waves disturbing fragile ecological systems along the shore; and,
• turbidity of water through ship propellers, along with swirling up of
sediment which contributes to spreading of foreign animal and plant
species.
The Central Commission for the Navigation of the Rhine has a regulatory
framework spanning four areas
1. traffic regulations;
2. technical requirements;
3. personnel executing nautical functions; and,
4. transportation of dangerous goods.
The regulations covering these four areas are applicable for all countries that the
Rhine flows through.
Additionally, as is the case with other rivers, certain sections of the river require
captains to hold specific patents to ensure safe navigation.
Moselle
The Moselle Commission founded by France, Germany and Luxembourg
establishes a regulatory framework with a special emphasis on safety regulations.
This includes the Moselle Waterway Policy Ordinance for navigation on the
Moselle River. The commission also deals with construction projects such as the
lifting of bridges or the doubling of locks.
The Moselle Commission cooperates with the International Commissions for the
Protection of the Moselle and the Saar (IKSMS), which aim, among other aspects,
to safeguard water quality and prevent accidents.
Danube
The International Commission for the Protection of the Danube River has been
established by the Danube River Protection Convention, the overall legal
instrument for co-operation on transboundary water management in the Danube
River Basin.
It is an international body dealing with river basin management which focuses on
sustainable water management including the reduction of contamination and
surface / ground water conservation
Another body, the Danube Commission has the following areas of intervention:
• establishment of a uniform system of traffic regulations;
• creating a regulatory framework concerning the river customs and sanitary
inspection; and,
• publishing sailing directions, nautical charts and atlases for navigation.
31
National
Each country has national legislation that affects river cruising in a number of aspects. While
national legislation is often aligned with river-specific or international regulatory frameworks, some
differences exist, for example, between the ten EU countries and non-EU countries that border the
Danube River. Each river cruise company must be familiar with the current and evolving national
legislation in each country to be able to comply with these standards.
International
A number of international agreements exist, such as the EU Water Framework Directive, which aim
to protect the biological quality of water bodies and monitor chemical contamination. Other
examples of EU legislation include the Council regulation 1356/96/EC on common rules applicable
to the transport of goods or passengers by inland waterway between member states; directive
2008/68/EC on the inland transport of dangerous goods; or directive 2000/59/EC on port reception
facilities for ship generated waste and cargo residues.
The vast number of laws and regulations affecting the international business of river cruising is not
within the remit of this guide. It is clear that constant monitoring of the relevant legislation is needed,
ideally by a designated person or department in charge of assuring compliance.
Another important area of legislation concerns food safety. The internationally known and accepted
hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP), which represents a preventive approach to
food safety from EU legislation since 2004 (EC regulation 852/2004) and also provide guidelines for
dealing with food waste. Complying with this legislation represents standard procedure among river
cruise companies today.
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