IMO sets new deadlines for ship emissions

THE LATEST step on the control of harmful emissions from ships (See FTW, April 18) has been to set the deadlines and parameters for sulphur oxide (SOx) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) controls. The marine environment protection committee (MEPC) of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has just approved proposed amendments to the Marpol (marine pollution) Annex VI regulations to reduce emissions. The main change, according to the IMO, is a progressive reduction in SOx emissions. This is designed to see the global sulphur cap reduced initially from the current 4.50% to 3.50% – effective from January 1, 2012. In the next eight years this figure will progressively sink to the 0.50% limit effective from January 1, 2020. The progress will be monitored by a feasibility review, due to be completed no later than 2 018. The limits applicable in IMO-designated sulphur emission control areas (Secas) would be reduced from the current 1.50% to 1.00% beginning on March 1, 2 010. It is then to be further reduced to 0.10 % effective from January 1, 2015. Similarly, the MEPC has also agreed to progressive reductions in NOx emissions from marine engines. The most stringent controls are on so-called “'Tier III”' engines – those installed on ships constructed on-or-after January 1, 2 016.