A study, commissioned by T&E that was conducted by IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute and CE Delft entitled ‘NOx Controls for Shipping in EU Seas’, has found that a levy may be the most impactful method for reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions in European waters, stating that it could hold the potential of reducing NOx by up to 70% if implemented.
Under auspices of the study, researchers conducted an assessment of NOx abatement measures and the methods used for reducing emissions both under the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in the form of NOx Emission Control Areas (ECAs) and further European Union (EU) policies.
Overall, the study determined that a NOx levy could reduce emissions up to 70% when used on its own. Compared with establishing NOx ECAs in Northern waters, the levy alone may reap higher emissions reductions benefits, although this may be at a higher cost.
Using both a levy and a fund to help subsidise the costs of NOx abatement measures may also be an option and help reduce industry costs, although it may not be as effective in terms of emissions reductions. However, it would still give twice the emissions reductions benefits compared with the inclusion of slow steaming.
To view a more detailed article on the study and the methods of research conducted, please click here.
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