Implementing Measures to Reduce Ship Emissions
27 Mar.,2025
To effectively reduce air pollution from ships and improve air quality in coastal and inland port cities, HuaZhiHang has compiled several measures based on our clients' experiences:
- Establishing Emission Control Areas (ECAs): Clearly define coastal and inland ECAs with specific geographical boundaries. Implement stricter emission standards and regulatory measures within these areas.
- Applicable Vessels: All vessels operating, berthing, or conducting activities within ECAs must comply with the relevant emission control requirements.
- Sulfur Oxide and Particulate Matter Control: Limit the sulfur content of marine fuels and promote the use of low-sulfur fuels. Mandate the installation of particulate matter capture devices or other exhaust gas cleaning systems.
- Nitrogen Oxide Control: Require the use of low-nitrogen oxide emission engine technologies. Implement selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems or exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions.
- Shore Power Connection: Encourage ports to provide shore power services and equip vessels with the necessary connections to reduce emissions while berthed.
- Clean and Renewable Energy: Promote the use of clean and renewable energy sources such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), electricity, or hydrogen fuel cells as propulsion fuels. Support pilot projects and applications of new energy technologies.
- Onboard Energy Storage: Encourage the installation of onboard energy storage systems to utilize electricity as an auxiliary or primary power source, reducing the use of fossil fuels.
- Exhaust Gas Aftertreatment: Promote the use of exhaust gas aftertreatment technologies, such as denitrification and desulfurization, to reduce pollutant emissions.
- Enforcing Existing Regulations and Standards: Vessels must comply with international conventions, domestic laws, and regulations. Strengthen the supervision and enforcement of emissions regulations.
- Public Education and Awareness: Educate seafarers and industry professionals on environmental protection and emission control technologies. Raise public awareness of ship air pollution and encourage community oversight.
- Technological Innovation and Research: Encourage technological innovation in the shipping industry to develop more environmentally friendly ship designs and operations. Support research and development in ship emission control technologies by research institutions and enterprises.
- Policy Support and Incentives: Governments can provide financial subsidies, tax incentives, and other policy support to encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies. Implement green ship certification and reward systems to incentivize shipping companies and ports to take more proactive measures to reduce emissions.
By implementing these comprehensive measures, we can effectively reduce ship emissions, promote sustainable shipping, and contribute to improving air quality in coastal and inland port cities.
