Gibraltar issues guidance on prohibition of heavy fuel oil in Arctic waters

Eda Zenic -

The Gibraltar Maritime Administration has issued Shipping Guidance Notice 146, providing details on amendments to Annex I of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL). These amendments introduce a prohibition on the use and carriage of heavy fuel oil (HFO) in Arctic waters to protect the region's sensitive marine environment.

Key Highlights of the New Regulation

The prohibition is part of broader international efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of shipping. It was agreed upon by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) through Resolution MEPC.329(76). The regulation is being implemented in Gibraltar under the Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution from Ships) Regulations 2009 (as amended).

Staged Implementation

First Stage: Effective July 1, 2024
From this date, most vessels are prohibited from using or carrying HFO as fuel in Arctic waters.

  • Exceptions include:
    • Ships engaged in search and rescue or ensuring the safety of other vessels.
    • Ships dedicated to oil spill preparedness and response.
    • Vessels designed or constructed to meet specific fuel tank protection standards outlined in regulation 12A of MARPOL Annex I and the Polar Code.
    • Ships flagged by Arctic coastal states operating exclusively within their territorial waters under temporary waivers.

Second Stage: Full Implementation by July 1, 2029
After this date, the prohibition will apply universally, and most exemptions and waivers will no longer be valid. The only exceptions will be vessels used for search and rescue operations or oil spill response.

Definition of Heavy Fuel Oil

HFO, as defined in MARPOL Annex I, refers to oils other than crude oil that have:

  • A density greater than 900 kg/m³ at 15°C, or
  • A kinematic viscosity exceeding 180 mm²/s at 50°C.

Cleaning Requirements

Ships that previously carried or used HFO are not required to clean or flush tanks or pipelines before the prohibition takes effect.

Environmental Impact and Importance

This regulation aligns with existing prohibitions on HFO use in Antarctic waters and addresses the heightened environmental risks posed by shipping activities in Arctic regions. HFO spills are particularly challenging to manage in polar environments, making these measures essential for Arctic conservation.

Compliance and Further Information

Shipowners, operators, and masters must ensure compliance with these regulations. The text of the updated MARPOL Annex I regulation 43A is available in the notice, and further guidance can be obtained through Gibraltar’s Maritime Administration.

This new policy reflects Gibraltar’s commitment to upholding international maritime environmental standards and ensuring the sustainability of polar ecosystems.