The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is conducting a review of Annex VI of the Maritime Pollution (MARPOL) protocol. MARPOL is one of the pillars of environmental policy for the shipping industry and Annex VI sets the standard for emission rights and compliance.
Media coverage of emission reductions initiatives in the transportation sector traditionally centers on road transport, but behind the lights the shipping industry is on board and making progress. Although shipping is by far the most energy-efficient mode of transportation in terms of fuel consumption (and emissions) per unit moved, rapid growth - in particular of containerized transport - has raised concerns over air quality in ports and coastal areas.
MARPOL is the main international convention covering prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational and accidental causes. Regulations for the prevention of air pollution were first adopted in 1997 and are included in Annex VI of the Convention. A sharpening of the rules is now deemed necessary and feasible in terms of technological advances in ship- and engine building.
The review is undertaken by the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) in consultation with industry stakeholders. The MEPC Working Group on Air Pollution focuses its efforts on further reducing emissions of nitrogen oxide (NOx), sulphur oxide (SOx) and particulate matter (PM) from ships’ engines. Recommendations will be brought forward in July 2007.
Meanwhile, many of the major shipping lines are voluntarily taking measures to reduce their impact on the global environment. For example, American President Line (APL) of
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