Cruise ships are massive vessels that house thousands of people at a time. With so many passengers and crew members on board, it’s natural to wonder how the ship gets rid of all the waste, including human waste. In this article, we’ll explore the intricate process of how cruise ships get rid of poop.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the details of how cruise ships dispose of human waste, it’s important to understand some basic terminology. The two main types of waste that a cruise ship generates are greywater and blackwater.
Greywater is wastewater generated from sinks, showers, and laundry facilities on board. Blackwater is wastewater generated from toilets and contains human waste.
Treating Greywater
Greywater is typically treated on board before being discharged into the ocean. The treatment process involves removing any large debris or particles from the water and then passing it through a series of filters to remove smaller particles and contaminants. Finally, the water is disinfected using chemicals such as chlorine before being released into the ocean.
Dealing with Blackwater
Blackwater requires a more complex treatment process than greywater due to its high concentration of bacteria and pathogens. Cruise ships use a system called Marine Sanitation Devices (MSDs) to treat blackwater before discharging it into the ocean.
The MSDs work by breaking down organic matter in the blackwater using bacteria and chemicals such as chlorine or ozone. Once the blackwater has been treated, it is discharged into the ocean through a pipe located at least three miles away from land.
The Role of Regulations
The disposal of waste from cruise ships is strictly regulated by international laws such as MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution From Ships). These laws dictate where and how much waste can be discharged from a ship.
For example, MARPOL prohibits any discharge of untreated sewage within three nautical miles of shore. Additionally, some areas have designated “no-discharge zones” where all waste, including treated greywater and blackwater, must be stored on board until it can be offloaded at a port.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cruise ships use a combination of treatment systems and regulations to dispose of human waste while at sea. While it may not be the most glamorous topic, understanding how these ships deal with waste is crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our oceans.