Skift Global Forum Preview: Carnival CEO Arnold Donald Says Sustainability Is 'Job One'

Carnival Corporation has been no stranger to criticism against its sustainability track record. Earlier this year, its executive committee sat before a federal judge in Miami and pleaded guilty to violating its probation for environmental crimes. But that doesn't mean Carnival CEO Arnold Donald doesn't want to talk about cruising's impact on the environment. In fact, Donald said his company is redoubling its commitments to environmental compliance and getting cruisers where they want to go — safely, cleanly, and carbon efficiently. As the cruise industry prepares to meet the International Maritime Organization's 2020 deadline for cleaner fuel standards — as well as its longer-term goal of carbon-free shipping by the end of this century — cruise lines like Carnival have their work cut out for them. Donald, however, seems aware that sustainability isn't just a trend or buzzword used to attract younger cruisers. Rather, it's something that must be at the core of Carnival's operations and mission. Donald will be speaking at Skift Global Forum in New York City on September 18–19. Skift Editor's Note: This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and length.  Skift: Do you think most consumers/travelers see Carnival Corporation as an environmentally responsible company?    Arnold Donald: While I real