In June, the 76th Marine Environmental Protection Committee adopted Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), ushering in a new era of stricter regulations for vessel emissions.
Starting from January 2023, vessels registered in MARPOL signatory countries with a gross tonnage exceeding 400kt will undergo exhaust emissions tests using the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) scale.
The primary objective of these measures is to align the maritime industry with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) ambitious target of reducing emissions by 40% by 2030, based on 2008 emission levels. It's worth noting that this target is slightly below the European Union's more stringent goal of achieving a 55% emissions reduction compared to 1990 levels.
To demonstrate compliance with the EEXI standards, vessels that pass the emissions testing will be awarded an International Energy Efficiency Certificate (IEEC). As a result, ports and terminals may start demanding evidence of IEECs before granting access, and it may also become an insurance requirement for vessel owners.
Furthermore, ship operators will need to explore the use of alternative, lower-carbon fuels such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen. However, adopting these fuels may necessitate substantial engine modifications. Additionally, vessel owners may also have to consider embracing alternative propulsion methods, including sail, electrical, and nuclear options, to meet the new emissions regulations.
