×
Get latest travel news
In a significant stride towards sustainable tourism, The Bahamas has formed a partnership with Carnival Cruise Line, leveraging its operations from the United States to enhance eco-friendly practices at Celebration Key, located in Grand Bahama. Each week, approximately 2,800 pounds of used coffee grounds from the Carnival cruise ship Mardi Gras, which operates from Port Canaveral in Florida, are being diverted from waste disposal. These coffee grounds are sent ashore to be utilized in composting programs managed by local firm ATO Landscaping. The compost produced from this effort enriches the soil, promoting the growth of native trees, palms, and beautified landscapes throughout Celebration Key. Furthermore, schools, agricultural organizations, and environmental groups on Grand Bahama are actively participating in this initiative, encouraging a collaborative approach to sustainability.
This initiative comes at a pivotal moment as Celebration Key undergoes expansion. Opened in July 2025 with an investment of $600 million, the destination recently increased its capacity, now able to accommodate four cruise ships simultaneously, doubling its previous berthing facilities. Since its launch, Carnival has welcomed over two million visitors to this vibrant hub, with plans for additional cruise lines, including Germany’s AIDA Cruises and Princess Cruises, expected to begin operations later in 2026. This growth not only amplifies the tourism potential but also heightens the importance of effective waste management and resource sustainability at Celebration Key.
Advertisement
Advertisement
With thousands of passengers and crew consuming coffee on every voyage, Mardi Gras generates a regular supply of coffee grounds. Rather than contributing to traditional waste streams, Carnival has taken proactive measures to separate and transport this organic material to Grand Bahama for local use.
If the current collection rate persists, this project could potentially recycle around 145,600 pounds (approximately 66 metric tonnes) of organic material annually. Thus far, Carnival has not disclosed a total volume report, but the initiative stands as a favorable example of how cruise lines can integrate environmental stewardship into their operations by enhancing local agricultural practices through responsible waste management.
| Programme Stage | Current Process | Intended Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Collection | Used coffee grounds are collected aboard Mardi Gras | Avoidance of conventional waste stream |
| Transportation | Collected grounds transported ashore to Celebration Key | Transform shipboard waste into local resource |
| Processing | ATO Landscaping incorporates material into compost | Grounds produce richer soil |
| Application | Compost supports landscaping and local flora | Improved soil quality and water retention |
| Community Distribution | Engagement of schools, farms, and environmental groups | Hands-on education and practical experience |
| Future Development | Expansion to include more local schools and farmers | Wider community impact and sustainability |
Currently, the program primarily relies on the Mardi Gras for its coffee ground collections. Whether other cruise vessels will join the initiative remains uncertain. However, there’s potential for substantial growth in supply as more ships dock at the expanded facility, further enriching the sustainability strategy for Grand Bahama.
Several local educational institutions have been identified as partners in this initiative, including Lucayan International School, Bishop Michael Eldon School, Jack Hayward Senior High School, Mary Star of the Sea School, and The Beacon School. By participating in the program, students gain firsthand experience in composting and sustainable soil management, bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and practical application.
Additionally, agricultural organizations such as Island Manna Farms and Waterkeepers Bahamas are involved, utilizing the repurposed coffee grounds for compost in their operations. Waterkeepers Bahamas even integrates these grounds into a mangrove nursery, serving both as an educational hub and advancing coastal restoration efforts.
These partnerships extend the initiative beyond just re-purposing waste, fostering deeper connections between the local economy, environmental education, and sustainable agricultural practices on Grand Bahama.
Spent coffee grounds are rich in organic matter and contain essential nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. When composted effectively, they can enhance soil structure, biological activity, and moisture retention. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to note that direct application of untreated coffee grounds can adversely affect plant health, restricting the availability of nitrogen and potentially stunting germination due to residual caffeine. Carnival has assured that the grounds are incorporated into a controlled composting process, mitigating these risks.
The Community Coffee Grounds Initiative aligns with Carnival Corporation’s overarching sustainability strategy aimed at reducing food waste by 50% per person by 2030, compared to its 2019 baseline. With a reported decrease of over 47% by the end of 2025, this initiative signifies a targeted approach to transforming a specific waste stream into a beneficial community resource.
As Celebration Key continues to develop, it forms a vital component of Grand Bahama’s tourism sector, supporting over 1,000 local jobs through its operations. The expanded pier aims to increase visitor capacity, fostering additional economic opportunities while drawing attention to the need for responsible resource management practices.
While the coffee grounds initiative provides one effective way to mitigate environmental impact, ongoing assessments are necessary to measure the program’s success. Transparency in reporting on waste diversion, soil performance, and community engagement will be crucial for its long-term credibility and effectiveness.
What is the Community Coffee Grounds Initiative?
This initiative collects used coffee grounds from the Mardi Gras and repurposes them through composting and soil improvement programs in Grand Bahama.
How many coffee grounds are collected each week?
Carnival collects approximately 2,800 pounds (1,270 kilograms) of used coffee grounds weekly.
When did the programme begin?
The operational initiative officially commenced on January 9, 2026.
Where are the grounds used?
The grounds are utilized for landscaping at Celebration Key and distributed to local schools, farms, and environmental organizations.
Are coffee grounds safe for plants?
When properly composted, coffee grounds can benefit soil. However, excessive untreated quantities can harm certain plants.
How many ships can Celebration Key accommodate?
With its expanded infrastructure, Celebration Key can host up to four cruise ships at once.
Source: The post The Bahamas Pairs Up with United States Cruise Operations as Germany Prepares to Enter Celebration Key While Repurposed Coffee Grounds Advance Grand Bahama Community Sustainability and Tourism first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
