An example of this process can be given surrounding discussions as to whether air pollutants should be included in the MARPOL regulations or not. Discussions around this began as far back as 1973. The decision then was to exclude them. In 1988 the issue came up again with another proposal being made in 1991. This was adopted in September 1997. Following a ratification process, the new regulations finally came into force in May 2005. In the 14 years, between the initial proposal and it taking effect, a great deal happened in terms of equipment technology and development. It is easy to understand then why the regulations that were finally approved were already inefficient.
Today's regulations for shipping limit the sulphur content in fuel to 4.5 per cent -where the world average sulphur content of Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) is 2.7 per cent (equals 27,000 ppm). In 2012 the limit will be reduced to 5.5 per cent and 2020 it will be further reduced to 0.5 per cent.
For specially sensetive areas, Emission Controlled Areas (ECA), IMO has a tougher reduction rate. From July 2010 the limit is 1.0 per cent and from 2015 the sulphur content must not exceed 0.1 per cent. To become an ECA the specific region must apply to IMO. Today the Baltic Sea, the English channel and the North Sea are all defined as ECAs. The US and Canada has applied and will achieve ECA status in late 2012.
|
Global |
ECA |
| 2010 |
4.5% |
1.0% from July 1 |
| 2012 |
3.5% |
|
| 2015 |
|
0.1% |
| 2020 |
0.5% |
|
In addition to this, there are several regional legislations, for example an EU Directive and the California Air Resource Boards CARB regulation. An overview of the most important legislations can be found below.
