The mapping initiative was one of 11 recommendations delivered to the cruise industry by the seven-member independent science panel. The recommendations looked at a variety of issues including:

• Treatment and discharge of blackwater (ie, wastewater generated from toilets and medical sinks) and graywater (ie, wastewater from sinks, showers, laundries and kitchens);
• Continued installation and monitoring of advanced wastewater purification systems (AWPS), as well as independent evaluation of AWPS through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Environmental Technology Verification Program;
• Protocols for disposal of sewage bio-residues (sludge);
• Improving source control and continued use of biodegradable soaps, shampoos, detergents and cleaning agents;
• Improving passenger education about environmental stewardship by providing pre-boarding and onboard literature about waste management practices.

The full list of recommendations, as well as other supporting material developed by the science panel can be found online at www.celb.org and www.iccl.org.

"The industry is grateful that these scientists have volunteered their time to aid the industry in identifying practices that will lead to a cleaner marine environment. Our partnership with Conservation International on the wastewater mapping exercise is an example of our continuing commitment to the world's oceans," said Michael Crye, ICCL president. "The ICCL, as well as each of its member lines, will take into consideration all of the independent science panel's recommendations and determine how to best implement them. From our initial review, a major
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Contact: Julian Teixeira
j.teixeira@conservation.org
202-912-1454
Conservation International
14-Mar-2006