NorthStandard P&I Club informs of the specific requirements regarding the open loop Exhaust gas cleaning system (EGCS), also known as scrubber, discharge in China.
According to NorthStandard, many ports and regions have already stated that they will not allow the discharge of washwater from open-loop scrubbers. Exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS) – more commonly referred to as scrubbers – are an accepted equivalent measure in complying with the IMO 2020 global sulphur cap. Regarding China, according to NorthStandard, discharge is not permitted in Inland river Emission Control Areas (ECAs), Port areas within coastal ECAs and Bohai Sea.
This information has been researched and gathered in collaboration with the Clean Shipping Alliance, and we are grateful to our network of correspondents and local sources for their valuable contributions.
… NorthStandard informs
China (P.R.) – Is open loop EGCS discharge allowed?
As mentioned, it is not permitted in Inland river Emission Control Areas (ECAs), Port areas within coastal ECAs and Bohai Sea. China MSA guidance prohibits the discharge of water washings from open- loop scrubbers in certain areas. The prohibited areas are:
- Inland river Emission Control Areas (ECAs);
- Port areas within coastal ECAs; and
- Bohai Sea – the sea area within lines connecting the junction point of shorelines of Dandong, Dalian and shorelines of Yantai, Weihai.
The guidelines also prohibit the incineration of the water washing residues from any type of exhaust gas scrubber. Ships are required to keep accurate records of the stowage and disposal of the washing washings.
If a vessel is not able to store the washing water it is required to switch to low sulphur fuel (not exceeding 0.5%) prior to entering the above areas. The guidelines also state that under certain circumstances a vessel may apply for an exemption if it uses fuel that does not meet the MSA’s requirements.
A copy of the MSA’s guidelines for ships operating within the ECAs, including enforcement details can be found here.