Innovative Microplastic Filter Launched by Marella Cruises

Marella Cruises and Cleaner Seas Group have announced the launch of a pioneering microplastic filter initiative aboard the Marella Explorer.

As per a press release, Marella has installed two INDIKON filters on the Marella Explorer’s crew laundry system for a six-month trial. This initiative aims to prevent marine ecosystems from being affected by plastic microfibres.

Developed by Cleaner Seas Group, the washing machine filter can be fitted to existing washing machines to capture microplastics from the machine’s wastewater. In collaboration with the University of Surrey, the company will monitor and measure the microplastics collected onboard the ship.

Olivia Wells, Sustainability Manager at Marella Cruises, stated: “We are committed to finding ways to further look after the natural environment in which our ships sail. By working with Cleaner Seas Group during this six-month trial as an industry-first initiative, we believe that it will support future studies on preserving and protecting oceans.”

Dave Miller, CEO of Cleaner Seas Group, added: “We are thrilled to be working on this ocean conservation initiative with Marella Cruises. By collaborating with one of the largest cruise lines in the UK, we hope to set a new course in microplastic capture prevention at sea."

Following the trial, the cruise line will review the results before potentially rolling out the INDIKON filters across the entire fleet, which includes the Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2, and the new Marella Voyager.