“Going Green” in Travel: Cruise Lines Lead the Way

Green has become the new black, and it seems nearly impossible to watch television or read a magazine without seeing something related to the "green" movement. Businesses across every industry are striving to become more environmentally friendly and the travel industry is no different. Certain travel verticals have been focused on environmental impact from their very earliest stages, while others are slow to change. Graduate students from New York University's Preston Robert Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism and Sports Management program recently conducted preliminary research in support of the upcoming PhoCusWright Special Report, Going Green: The Business Impact of Environmental Awareness on Travel. In their research findings, cruise lines distinguished themselves as the most advanced of the industry in their focus on minimizing environmental impact. Major "green" initiatives launched or being launched by cruise lines include:* An on-board recycling plant that recycles 100% of all solid waste products in addition...