World’s largest cruise company partners with leading environmental NGO to advance mangrove restoration and nature‑positive businesses in the Caribbean

Advancing its commitment to sustainability, Carnival Corporation announced a three‑year grant to Conservation International to restore mangrove forests in the Caribbean, recognized globally for its pristine beauty and as home to the world’s top cruise destinations.

The grant brings together the world’s largest cruise company with an international leader in conservation to safeguard critical coastal forests that buffer shorelines from storms, absorb carbon from the atmosphere, and sustain marine life and local livelihoods in the Caribbean.

Funding will come from Carnival Corporation and signature programs like Holland America Line’s “On Deck for a Cause” 5K walks, which invites guests of all ages onboard non-Alaska voyages to donate, stretch their legs on a scenic deck-side walk for Conservation International and celebrate their impact with a post-walk reception, keepsake T-shirt and wristband. Support will also come from Carnival Corporation’s “Keep the Change” program inviting guests on board most of the company’s cruise lines to donate a portion of their casino payouts to Conservation International.

“The Caribbean’s warm and welcoming spirit is matched only by the breathtaking beauty of its natural environment, reminding us of our shared responsibility to safeguard these ecosystems for those who come after us,” said Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc. “Working with Conservation International gives us a meaningful way to partner with communities in biodiverse coastal destinations. Together, we’re supporting local innovation and social impact while helping care for the natural wonders that make these destinations so beloved.”

Turning Conservation into Action

At the heart of the partnership are initiatives designed to deliver measurable impact centered around enriching and protecting delicate Caribbean ecosystems, including:

• Protecting and helping to restore significant coastal wetlands in the Caribbean. Wetlands buffer shorelines, store carbon and provide critical habitat for fish, crustaceans and migratory bird species, but have been damaged by severe weather and other environmental threats. With support from Carnival Corporation, Conservation International and partners will help rehabilitate mangrove forests by supporting natural regeneration. The work will also strengthen research and monitoring and deepen community engagement to ensure that local residents who rely on these delicate ecosystems benefit from long-term conservation efforts.

• The initiative will also provide targeted support to small and micro-enterprises in the Caribbean that depend on nature — including ecotourism operators, fishers and artisans. Working with local partners, Conservation International will provide technical assistance, training, mentoring and access to small grants to help entrepreneurs adopt sustainable practices while growing their businesses.

A Shared Commitment to Oceans, People and Place

The new collaboration builds on Carnival Corporation’s long‑standing commitment to sustainability and advances the organization’s 2030 sustainability goals. Across its operations, the company continues to reduce its fuel consumption and emissions while expanding its circular economy practices by reducing, reusing and recycling products and materials. Carnival Corporation also collaborates closely with the communities it sails to and from by honoring and supporting the remarkable cultures and environments it visits around the world.

Conservation International works to protect nature for the benefit of people through science, policy and fieldwork. The organization partners with communities, governments and industries worldwide to conserve biodiversity, advance marine protection, and accelerate climate solutions.

“Healthy mangroves mean safer communities, stronger economies and more resilient Caribbean coastlines,” said Kelvin Alie, Conservation International Acting Head of Conservation Programs and Senior Vice President. “Together with Carnival Corporation, we are helping to restore these critical ecosystems so they can deliver lasting benefits for both people and nature.”