A move that will result in cleaner air for millions of Americans.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) officially accepted the proposal to designate waters off the North American coasts as an Emission Control Area (ECA), a move that will result in cleaner air for millions of Americans.
The ECA was proposed in March 2009 and the IMO adopted it in the fastest possible timetable. This is a change that will benefit millions of people and set in motion new innovations for the shipping industry. Were gratified by the IMOs decision to help keep our air clean and our communities healthy, said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson.
Enforcing the stringent ECA standards will reduce sulphur content in fuel by 98 percent, slashing particulate matter emissions by 85 percent and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 80 percent. To achieve these reductions, tougher sulphur standards will phase in starting in 2012, ultimately reaching no more than 1,000 parts per million by 2015. Also, new ships must use advanced emission control technologies beginning in 2016 which will help reduce NOx emissions.