Royal Caribbean Group’s Galveston Cruise Terminal Earns Dual LEED Net Zero Certifications

Royal Caribbean Group’s Galveston Cruise Terminal has set a remarkable precedent by becoming the first cruise facility to earn both LEED Net Zero Energy and LEED Net Zero Carbon certifications for its operational performance. These certifications, awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), add to the terminal’s previous LEED Gold certification obtained upon its opening in November 2022.

Joshua Carroll, RCG’s senior vice president of Destination Development, highlighted that this achievement reflects the company’s commitment to responsible operations, made possible through the collaboration of RCG, terminal operator SSA Marine, sustainability consultants CodeGreen, and the Port of Galveston. This milestone was reached just three years after the terminal commenced operations.

The LEED framework is recognized internationally for setting standards in sustainable building design and performance. The LEED Zero Carbon certification is granted to facilities maintaining net zero carbon emissions for a full year, while the LEED Zero Energy certification is awarded to those achieving an equal balance between energy consumption and renewable energy production over the same duration.

USGBC President and CEO Peter Templeton stated that RCG’s achievements go beyond compliance with sustainable practices, showcasing a strong organizational resolve to enhance climate responsibility within the maritime and port industries.

The certification process involved a thorough audit of the terminal’s energy, water, and waste management, conducted by CodeGreen. Utilizing the collected data, SSA Marine executed system improvements and retro-commissioning to optimize the terminal’s performance. The review concluded in March 2025, leading to the awarding of the dual certifications on June 18.

To commemorate this achievement, a plaque has been installed in the terminal’s main lobby, symbolizing Royal Caribbean Group’s ongoing dedication to environmentally sustainable practices in cruise operations and port infrastructure development.

For more information, visit Royal Caribbean Group and Galveston Port.

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