Sulphur Emissions: The Clock is Ticking Publications Charles Brown Published: August 08, 2018 Contact author Download article pdf Image As Members will be aware, the Marpol Annex VI Regulation 14.1.3 will come into force on 1 January 2020 requiring vessels to comply with the 0.5% SOX emissions limit worldwide other than in Emission Control Areas [ECA] to which the existing 0.1% limit will continue to apply. With less than 18 months to go before implementation of one of the most wide-ranging measures to affect the majority of the world’s merchant fleet, it may be helpful to identify some of the potential issues arising in consequence. There are two principal methods available to achieve compliance: 1. To “clean” a vessel’s exhaust gases so as to be able to continue to burn high sulphur fuel oil (HSFO) ; or 2. To change over to the use of clean fuels, Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (LSFO), distillates or liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) The first requires the installation of an exhaust gas cleaning system or scrubber. Amongst potential considerations are: Feasibility. Does the vessel’s design and structure permit this? Cost-benefit. Will the vessel’s remaining service life and price differential between HSFO and LSFO enable the significant costs involved to be amortised? Availability. There are a limited number of manufacturers of such equipment and facilities where it can be installed. Will suppliers be able to manufacture, deliver and install a sufficient volume of scrubbers to meet demand? Efficiency. Will scrubbers work effectively? What will their effect be on main engine performance and fuel consumption? Operation. In the case of closed system scrubbers, will there be facilities for the disposal of the residues? In case of open systems the intake seawater needs to meet alkalinity requirements and some countries have limited overboard discharge of wash water. Crew will require training in maintenance and operation. Whilst the second alternative avoids the issues identified abov