Exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) – more commonly referred to as scrubbers – are an accepted equivalent measure in complying with the IMO 2020 global sulphur cap. The use of scrubbers has split the shipping industry. Ports around the world are looking at the impact of scrubber use in their waters.
A number of ports and regions have already stated that they will not allow the discharge of washwater from scrubbers.
This information is to the best of our knowledge and is for guidance only. For up to date and definitive information, contact the local authorities or agents.
| Country | Port | Open loop EGCS discharge allowed? | Comments |
| Argentina | All | Yes – the prohibition is currently suspended |
Regulation No. 15/2020 of the Environment Protection Bureau, which came into force on 10 August 2020 , prohibited the discharge of washwater from the exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) of national or foreign-flagged vessels into Argentinean jurisdictional, sea or river waters. On 24 September 2020, Prefectura Naval Argentina issued Resolution DISFC-2020-22-APN-DPAM#PNA that suspended the enforcement of the above Resolution 15/2020. This resolution took effect from 3 October 2020. IT&L Legal Consultants warn that this suspension is provisional, and the restrictions have not been permanently overturned.
|
| Brazil | All (except Vale terminals) | Yes |
Prior to 23 July 2020, advice received from local correspondents was “ based on existing provisions in national legislation, especially Law 9.966/00, the discharge of effluents generated by Scrubbers or Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (EGCS) is not allowed and the vessel, when in Brazilian waters, must operate with fuel within specifications (sulphur content up to 0.5% m/m)”. However, correspondents Brazmar advised on 23 July 2020 that the Directorate of Ports and Coasts (DPC) / Navy have changed their previous guidance on the topic, and that the discharge of wash water from open loop and/or hybrid Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (EGCS) is allowed within Brazilian Jurisdictional Waters until the competent environmental authority has the opportunity to better assess the scenario. This is under the assumption that the subject EGCS is approved by Class, has a plan for compliance of SOx emissions and is approved as per requirements of resolution MEPC.259 (68) of IMO.
|
| Brazil | Vale ports and terminals | No |
Vale instruct arriving vessels that the discharge of EGCS washwater is not allowed while operating in its Brazilian ports and terminals. Vale recommends that vessels should be changed over to compliant fuel before entering contiguous zone or coastal waters (24 nautical miles from coastline). |
| India | Adani Ports | No |
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd has issued a circular advising that the discharge of washwater from open-loop scrubbers is prohibited. The instruction, which can be read here includes:
Above will come into force 1 November 2020.
|
| Oman | All | No |
Open-loop scrubber discharge is not permitted in Oman territorial waters
|
A full copy of the list continuing the 31 ports’ stance on scrubbers can be accessed here.
Related: North P&I Club: No Scrubs- More Ports Declare Ban on EGCS Discharges *Update*
Source: North P&I Club
Photo credit: Manifold Times
Attached table outlines North’s updated insight on the stands taken by ports that have or will prohibit the use of scrubbers, or have placed conditions on their use.
Two ultra-large container ships with scrubbers installed continued use of existing fuel oil while meeting all SOx emission regulations.
ABS shares experience learned from installation and commissioning to common hardware failures for scrubbers, and the type of consumables that are typically needed.
‘As a result of focusing on the development of eco-friendly technologies [...] to meet IMO environmental regulations, we have been recognised in the global market,’ said CEO.
Attached table outlines North’s updated insight on the stands taken by ports that have or will prohibit the use of scrubbers, or have placed conditions on their use.
Surge due to unexpected higher costs and instability of VLSFO aggravated by unexpected black carbon emission issues.
‘We need to keep in mind the saying “penny wise pound foolish”,’ says Captain Rahul Choudhuri, the Managing Director AMEA at VPS, who stresses on the essential role of the Bunker Surveyor.
Legal representatives met at the High Court on Tuesday to discuss the discharge of KPMG liquidators from all liability in respect of conduct in the course of winding up, show court documents.
Global sentence adjusts to 80 month’s imprisonment term for both Chang and Koh under application of the Masui sentencing framework; fine of SGD 6.2 million against Chang remains unchanged.
Company has been ranked EIGHTH for 2020; ‘we are humbled and proud to be placed amongst the top ten winners of the Enterprise 50 Awards,’ says Satnam Singh, COO, Sing Fuels.
Mads Bjornebye, Manager of Bunker Services at Teekay Tankers Ltd, shares about the company’s perspective of e-BDNs, bunker purchasing & planning tools, while offering his thoughts on future marine fuels.
Maritime sector may find it increasingly challenging to manage bunker prices, Dennis Ho, Managing Director at ElbOil Singapore tells Singapore bunkering publication Manifold Times.
