Reducing sulphur in ships’ fuel.
An International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulation in force since January 1 requires vessels to burn fuel oil of less than 0.5% sulphur (mass by mass), unless fitted with exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) known as scrubbers. Previously, heavy fuel oil containing 3.5% sulphur was permitted and the average content in fuels used throughout the industry was estimated at 2.7%.
Port authorities will apply the regulations strictly in Europe and North America, but probably less so in Africa and the Gulf.
China will reportedly require 0.5% fuel within its twelve-mile limit, although this seems to be hedged around with conditions.
The new regulations should reduce a major source of sulphur dioxide, which is contributing to global marine acidification.
