The MEPC agreed in principle that a final decision on the date of the implementation of the 0.5% sulphur limit should be taken at MEPC 70 in October 2016. The agreement for further discussion at the next MEPC was determined in order to give maritime Administrations, and the industry as a whole, time to prepare and plan accordingly.
This was encouraged by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and Intertanko, who both agreed that time is required for the industry to take important decisions to ensure that the quality of fuel they need is available. Ship owners will also need to make decisions regarding compliance and may consider other options such as scrubbers.
The implementation may be set in either 2020 or 2025. However, the study on fuel availability submitted will be considered in full before a decision is finally made, which may require additional research and could result in further delays.
Ship Efficiency Review News
To contact the reporter responsible for this article, please email editor@fathom-mi.com
