Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has published its fourth annual impact report, which details the progress in sustainability it made in 2024

It comes after the river cruise line in 2022 became one of the first to publish a survey of this kind. “Sustainability is woven into everything we do at Uniworld,” said Julie Higgins, sustainability officer.

“From cutting food waste to running on renewable energy and creating more inclusive travel experiences, our 2024 Impact Report reflects the tangible results we’re seeing and the passion continuing to drive us forward.”

Below, we outline four ways Uniworld progressed its sustainability credentials in 2024:

Progress towards reaching net zero

By 2050, Uniworld hopes to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. To do so, the brand became part of two research projects and implemented a five-year decarbonisation investment plan. Additionally, Uniworld achieved 100 per cent renewable electricity this year and its suites, buffets, and staterooms have been single plastic free since 2023.

Food waste reduction

Through the programme Leanpath, Uniworld managed to reduce food waste by 41 per cent. Leanpath helps chefs learn how to reduce the amount of food waste produced, which helped save over 185,417 meals. Uniworld also supports local farmers, helping to further reduce their carbon footprint and provide more job opportunities.

Brand inclusivity initiatives

Uniworld hosted several LGBTQ+ cruises last year, as well as its first women only cruise earlier in 2025. They also volunteered with Cordaan to help support elderly people and those with physical or cognitive challenges. All of Uniworld’s employees are trained in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to make passengers feel included, as well as enjoying their own employee safe spaces whenever needed.

‘Make Travel Matter’ and overtourism

More than two-thirds (71 per cent) of Uniworld’s itineraries include Make Travel Matter experiences, which help inform guests how to immerse themselves in the local community and wildlife sustainably. To battle overtourism, Uniworld is planning to visit lesser toured areas to help preserve places like Amsterdam and Venice. They are also collaborating with local officials and the IG River Cruise Association to find other ways to reduce overtourism.