Tag: EGCSA

A recent study by the Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems Association (EGCSA), indicates that both in a standard OECD port and in a highly trafficked seaway the operation of open loop scrubbers did not create an unwarranted risk. 

The Exhaust Gas Cleaning System Association (EGCSA) has launched a free to access global database concerning operating rules for scrubbers for shipowners. The association says the database will assist shipowners with scrubber-equipped vessels in removing uncertainty and inaccurate information.

The PPR 6 sub-committee meeting endorsed the use of EGCS as an approved option for complying with the 2020 0.5% global sulphur target. This was a development that was welcomed by the Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems Association. The sub-committee concluded in this in spite of concerns from the EU, which were based on a German report alleging a transfer of pollution from air to sea.

Scrubber uptake is rapidly accelerating with the number of ships with exhaust gas cleaning systems installed or on order standing at 983 as of 31 May 2018, according to a survey by EGCSA. This follows recent reports that major ship operators, including Spliethoff, Frontline, DHT and Star Bulk have opted for scrubbers.

Shipowners' investments are driven by their intent to respond in a cost-efficient way to the 2020 sulphur cap, argues Jeremy J Lowe, Global Program Manager - Marine at Hach UK Limited. Scrubbers represent a key solution, he notes, but a greater momentum is required if the full benefit is to be realised by the industry.

Scrubber manufacturers are delighted about the 2020 global 0.50% sulphur cap for marine fuels, but there are still some issues to overcome before owners rush to install abatement technology. These include uncertainties caused by the regulatory framework and elements of perhaps unfairly rigid environmental performance demands, EGCSA workshop heard last month.