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.