Posted by On this International Day of Clean Air for blue skies, we’re highlighting a key IMO initiative to provide cleaner air for all.
Since January this year, air pollution from ships has been drastically reduced, thanks to a new rule from IMO that limits sulphur oxydes emissions. This means cleaner air and significant benefits for human health. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/3jS3GRO
The main type of “bunker” oil for ships is heavy fuel oil, derived as a residue from crude oil distillation. Crude oil contains sulphur which, following combustion in the engine, ends up in ship emissions. Sulphur oxides (SOx) are known to be harmful to human health, causing respiratory symptoms and lung disease. In the atmosphere, SOx can lead to acid rain, which can harm crops, forests and aquatic species, and contributes to the acidification of the oceans.
Limiting SOx emissions from ships will improve air quality and protects the environment.
IMO regulations to reduce sulphur oxides (SOx) emissions from ships first came into force in 2005, under Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (known as the MARPOL Convention). Since then, the limits on sulphur oxides have been progressively tightened.
From 1 January 2020, the limit for sulphur in fuel oil used on board ships operating outside designated emission control areas is reduced to 0.50% m/m (mass by mass). This will significantly reduce the amount of sulphur oxides emanating from ships and should have major health and environmental benefits for the world, particularly for populations living close to ports and coasts.
Below you will find answers to some of the frequently asked questions about the sulphur limit.
IMO facebook page here
IMO official page on this issue here
IMO homepage here
Good news really.
Happy sailing.
Rgds, Sailor
Travelling storyteller. 