European law regarding the sulphur content of marine fuels is to
be brought into line with the stricter limits set down by the
International Maritime Organisation.
So, what are the limits and what does this mean for the cruise
industry?
Under the revised rules, the global sulphur cap is to be reduced
to 3.5%, effective from 1 January 2012; and then progressively to
0.5% by 1 January 2020. The sulphur cap in specially designated
Emission Control Areas was reduced from to 1% on 1 July 2010 and
will be further reduced to 0.1% effective from 1 January 2015.
The changes have been met with criticism from within the cruise
community amid concerns over the practicalities of compliance.
Low-sulphur fuel is more expensive than regular marine fuel and
switching will mean a huge rise in costs for cruise operators. In
addition, there are concerns that the demand for low-sulphur fuel
will be unpredictable and that the oil refining industry may be
unable to meet any sharp
