Royal Caribbean Group/RCG’s Galveston Cruise Terminal has become the first cruise facility to achieve both LEED Net Zero Energy and LEED Net Zero Carbon certifications for its operational performance. These recent recognitions, awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), build upon the terminal’s earlier LEED Gold certification earned for its design and construction when it began service in November 2022.
According to Joshua Carroll, RCG's senior vice president of Destination Development, the achievement underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to responsible operations and reflects the collaborative effort between RCG, terminal operator SSA Marine, sustainability consultants CodeGreen, and the Port of Galveston. Carroll emphasized that the combined efforts of these partners enabled the terminal to reach this milestone within three years of its opening.
The LEED framework serves as an internationally recognized standard for sustainable building design and performance. The LEED Zero Carbon certification acknowledges facilities that maintain net zero carbon emissions throughout a full year of operation, while the LEED Zero Energy certification recognizes those achieving a balance between energy use and renewable energy generation over the same period.
USGBC President and CEO Peter Templeton noted that RCG's accomplishment represents more than adherence to sustainable practices—it reflects an organizational commitment to advancing climate responsibility within the maritime and port sectors.
The certification process involved a detailed audit and benchmarking of the terminal’s energy, water, and waste usage conducted by CodeGreen. Using this data, SSA Marine implemented system enhancements and retro-commissioning efforts to improve efficiency and achieve optimal building performance. The review process concluded in March 2025, and the terminal received its dual certifications on June 18 of the same year.
A commemorative plaque has since been placed in the terminal’s main lobby, marking the occasion and signifying Royal Caribbean Group’s continued dedication to environmentally responsible cruise operations and port infrastructure development.