As part of ongoing global efforts to reduce marine pollution and improve air quality, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has introduced stricter fuel regulations for ships. Beginning May 1, 2025, under Regulation 14 of MARPOL Annex VI, all ships operating in the Mediterranean Sea will be required to use fuel with a sulphur content not exceeding 0.10%. This regulation is a significant step toward reducing sulphur emissions and promoting a cleaner, more sustainable maritime industry in the region.
What Does Regulation 14 of MARPOL Annex VI Entail?
MARPOL Annex VI, which regulates air pollution from ships, sets the standards for the sulphur content in fuels used by vessels. Specifically, Regulation 14 outlines the allowable sulphur content in marine fuels, with the new Mediterranean Sea-specific regulation mandating that from May 1, 2025, ships must use marine fuels that contain no more than 0.10% sulphur by weight.
This new limit is a substantial decrease from the previous limit of 0.50%, which applied globally under the IMO’s 2020 sulphur cap (the global sulphur limit for ships, introduced as part of MARPOL Annex VI). This regional reduction is part of a broader initiative to combat air pollution, reduce health risks, and meet environmental sustainability targets.
Alternative Compliance Methods
For ships unable to meet the 0.10% sulphur limit through fuel type alone, there are alternative compliance methods. These include the use of exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS), commonly known as scrubbers, or other approved compliance technologies that ensure an equivalent level of sulphur emission reduction. These alternatives allow for continued operation with higher sulphur content fuel while still adhering to the emission standards set by the IMO.
However, it is crucial to note that the use of scrubbers or other alternative methods must be approved by relevant authorities and provide the same level of environmental protection as using compliant low-sulphur fuels.
Why This Change is Important
The introduction of these more stringent fuel requirements comes as part of the IMO’s broader efforts to reduce the environmental impact of shipping, which is one of the largest sources of air pollution globally. Sulphur oxide (SOx) emissions from ships contribute significantly to acid rain, air pollution, and respiratory illnesses. The reduction of sulphur content in marine fuels will help mitigate these harmful effects, particularly in the densely trafficked Mediterranean region, which has unique environmental sensitivities and challenges.
By enforcing this 0.10% sulphur content limit, the IMO and the countries surrounding the Mediterranean are taking a critical step toward cleaner air, healthier ecosystems, and a more sustainable future for the maritime industry.
How Shipowners and Operators Can Prepare
Shipowners and operators should begin preparing now to ensure they meet the May 1, 2025, deadline for compliance. Here are some important steps:
- Review Fuel Supply Contracts: Ensure that your fuel suppliers can provide low-sulphur fuels meeting the 0.10% limit by the required date.
- Assess Compliance Methods: If using scrubbers or other compliance technologies, make sure they are properly installed, tested, and approved according to the latest regulations.
- Crew Training: Ensure that your crew is well-informed about the new regulations and trained on how to handle and monitor low-sulphur fuels.
- Audit Current Operations: Conduct a thorough audit of your vessel’s fuel consumption and emission control systems to ensure they align with the new regulations.
- Stay Informed: Regulatory landscapes are constantly evolving. Ensure that you stay updated on any changes to MARPOL Annex VI and other environmental regulations that may affect your operations
Conclusion
The introduction of the 0.10% sulphur content limit in the Mediterranean Sea is an important milestone in reducing shipping’s environmental footprint. Shipowners, operators, and stakeholders in the maritime industry must act now to ensure they are ready for this change by May 1, 2025.
As a marine surveyor consultant, we are here to help you navigate these new regulatory changes. Whether you need assistance with compliance strategies, fuel audits, or the installation of emission reduction technologies, our team of experts is ready to support your business in ensuring full compliance with MARPOL Annex VI.
For more information on how to comply with these new regulations, or to discuss your specific requirements, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@marine-safety-consultant.ch
