FORT LAUDERDALE, March 26, 2010 – The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), in attendance at this week’s meetings at the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Maritime Environment Protection Committee in London, released the following statement in response to the adoption of a North American Emissions Control Area (ECA) proposal to address ship air emissions:

“The Cruise Lines International Association and its cruise line members fully support the goals and intent of the proposed emissions control area aimed at improving air quality and promotion of health.As is the case with all environmental regulations, our industry will continue to work tirelessly with regulators to comply with new requirements.

“Our industry remains a leader in developing and implementing environmental innovation in the maritime industry, including our development and testing of pioneering engine exhaust “scrubber” technology.

“CLIA takes its responsibility to protect the environment very seriously; our lines meet or exceed all international and federal air emissions requirements, in addition to more stringent state clean air rules. In particular, CLIA’s member lines have invested significantly over the last decade to develop and implement new technologies that help to reduce air emissions.

These steps include:

- Utilizing shore-based power where available, allowing ship engines to be shut down while at port,

- Launching a demonstration project with “exhaust scrubber” technologies that reduce particulate matter and sulfur oxide emissions,

- Operating diesel electric engines, which allow much of the primary engine power to shut down when power demand is less,

- When available and practical, using alternative fuel options, and

- Encouraging manufacturers to develop more efficient engine designs to meet new regulations globally.

CLIA is committed to working with the international environmental regulators in order to advance our mutual goal of protecting the health of individuals and the environment.”

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