EPA Finalizes Rule for Shipping Emissions - Sustainable Business.com

Posted - December 29, 2009 - Sustainable Business.com

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has finalized a rule setting tough engine and fuel standards for large U.S.-flagged ships.

The regulation harmonizes with international standards and will lead to significant air quality improvements throughout the country.

Air pollution from large ships, such as oil tankers and cargo ships, is expected to grow rapidly as port traffic increases. By 2030, the domestic and international strategy is expected to reduce annual emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from large marine diesel engines by about 1.2 million tons and particulate matter (PM) emissions by about 143,000 tons. When fully implemented, this coordinated effort will reduce NOX emissions from ships by 80%, and PM emissions by 85%, compared to current emissionsm, EPA said. ...

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