The Malta Merchant Shipping Directorate on Wednesday (2 September) published a notice to the Maltese maritime community to be vigilant of scrubber washwater guidelines that vary in different states in order to ensure compliance and avoid unnecessary delays and even detention.
DISCHARGE OF WASHWATER FROM EXHAUST GAS CLEANING SYSTEMS
Merchant Shipping Notice 161
The Directorate wishes to remind all concerned of the requirements set out in MARPOL Annex VI and Directive (EU) 2016/802 limiting the sulphur content of marine fuels to 0.1% whilst operating in emission control areas, and the global sulphur limit of 0.5%, that became effective from 1 January 2015 and 1 January 2020 respectively; as well as regulating the use of exhaust gas cleaning systems.
Resolution MEPC.259(68) specifies the requirements for the verification, testing, survey and certification of scrubber systems and sets out the criteria for discharging exhaust gas cleaning washwater into the sea.
Notwithstanding the above, it is important to note that a number of coastal States and ports have implemented local regulations with more stringent requirements that restrict or even completely prohibit the discharge of washwater from open loop exhaust gas cleaning systems in waters falling under their jurisdiction.
It is imperative that owners/managers ensure that their crews are familiar with the emissions and discharge limits in force in their trading areas. Furthermore, since the regulatory enforcement strategy may differ from one region/port to another, crews must be provided with clear procedures and guidance on this matter well in advance of the vessel’s intended area of operation and port of call.
For vessels trading in areas where the discharge of scrubber washwater is not permitted, two options are available in order to ensure compliance with the sulphur limits, either to switch over to closed loop mode of EGCS operation in case of hybrid systems, or changeover to compliant fuel. Any changeover should be carried out well in advance of the vessel entering the areas with prohibition or restrictions in place. Early changeover is highly recommended as this may help in identifying any operational issues that may arise and to take corrective actions in a timely manner.
To this effect, it is recommended that shipowners and operators of Maltese registered ships undertake the necessary actions to ensure that the systems are in compliance not only with the relevant IMO instruments but also with the regulations and the limits in force in their trading areas. This should be done at the earliest opportunity to avoid the risk of any detentions or unnecessary delays.
A full copy of the circular is available here.
Photo credit: Chronis Yan on Unsplash
Published: 9 September, 2020
IBIA urges IMO to avoid implementing a ‘one size fits all’ policy for EGCS emission guidelines by requiring relevant evaluations and scientific backings from specific areas.
The conditions inside a scrubber are very harsh, with a combination of acids, elevated temperatures and a high chloride content in the wash water, explained corrosion specialist.
The order was placed in the first quarter of 2020 and equipment deliveries scheduled between the last quarter of 2020 and the second quarter of 2021.
‘We advise clients to monitor the situation and ensure that crew onboard vessels fitted with open loop scrubbers are aware of any local discharge requirements,’ it said.
A study by independent Norwegian research group SINTEF confirmed burning HSFO with a scrubber has a lower carbon footprint than using LSFO.
‘These systems have been in use for decades and there is no evidence of any negative impact on marine life or sea water quality, neither in open waters nor in port,’ said Chairman.
Associate Director at Helmsman highlights the need to stay up-to-date with latest protocols / measures introduced by MPA, with continuous education of Master and crew of the visiting vessel.
BunkerPlanner Lite is an attempt to educate professionals engaged in bunker decisions about the use of advanced technology in the decision process, explains BunkerMetric CEO Christian Plum.
Senior Associate at Clyde & Co offers guidance to protect shipowners and bunker tanker operators in the event opposing counterparty breaches Covid-19 protocols, resulting in Covid-19 transmission.
Having a surveyor’s watchful eye to detect illegal activities also sends a strong signal to barge and vessel crew not to undertake any intended non-compliance, states VPS Senior Sales Manager.
Bunker tanker owner’s trust in LR and Metcore’s expertise proves duo’s experience in bunkering MFMs and unceasing support made the difference in ensuring trust during bunker transactions.
‘To be clear, the activities undertaken by Ang outside of Sea Hub are categorically unrelated to the current non-active status of the company,’ Glen Lim, Shipping Director of Sea hub, tells Manifold Times.
