List of jurisdictions restricting or banning scrubber wash water discharges Last updated 14 July 2025 The MARPOL convention allows for the use of Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems 1 (EGCS, more commonly referred to as scrubbers) as an alternative means of complying with the 2020 low sulphur regulations. However, some jurisdictions have imposed local regulations which restrict or prohibit the discharge of wash water from scrubbers within their waters. The list below includes countries and ports where such restrictions are currently understood to be in place based on information received by the Association or the Clean Shipping Alliance at the time of publication. However, the list should not be seen as necessarily complete and is for guidance only, in particular noting that local legislation can be subject to change at short notice. It is therefore important that Members monitor the current situation closely and always contact their local agent/representative prior to arrival. This should include seeking confirmation of the latest situation regarding any applicable requirements relating to the operation of scrubbers and any permission required from the relevant local authorities for their use. Please feel free to contact the Britannia’s loss prevention department if further assistance or clarification is needed. Members are also welcome to notify us should they experience any restrictions or ban in a port or country not currently on the list. COUNTRY IS THE DISCHARGE OF WASH WATER PROHIBITED? PORT / SEA AREA ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Argentina No, the prohibition is currently suspended All The Clean Shipping Alliance advise: Disposición DISFC-2020-22-APN-DPAM#PNA dated 24/09/2020 issued by the Prefectura Naval, Dirección de Protección Ambienta suspended Disposición DISFC-2020-15-APNDPAM#PNA dated 03/08/2020 which prohibited the discharge of wash water in Argentinian territorial waters and ports. This took effect from 03/10/2020. Australia Restricted Territorial Waters of Australia As per Marine Notice 2025/04. AMSA allows vessels operating in Australian waters to use all scrubber systems – open, hybrid and closed – provided they are approved and operated in accordance with the IMO’s 2021 Guidelines for Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems. The Clean Shipping Alliance advise: Port of Hastings According to information dated 27/01/2020 received from the harbour master, discharge of wash water from EGCS into Westernport waters are not permitted. Bahrain Restricted Within port limits of Bahrain including the anchorage area. The requirements are set out in Marine Notice PMA 03 2019. This confirms that wash water from open loop scrubbers is not permitted in Bahraini territorial waters and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) unless it can be proved that the discharge complied with MEPC 259(68) and there is no negative impact on marine ecosystems. The Clean Shipping Alliance advise: Vessels must obtain a permit from the Marine Safety & Environment Protection Directorate before discharging wash water anywhere in Bahrain waters. Belgium Yes All ports and inland waters The European Commission (EC)’s 2016 Note on discharge of scrubber wash water prohibits the discharge in ports and inland waters but is allowed in coastal and open seawaters when at least 3nm off the coast and if the discharge does not imperil the objectives of the EC Water Framework Directive (WFD), 2000/60/EC. Belize Yes Territorial waters and port areas of Belize The Clean Shipping Alliance advise: Disch