MARPOL Annex VI Regulation 14, places limits on the sulphur content of marine fuel oils in order to control sulphur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter emissions. Regulation 4 enables the use of Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems as a alternative method of compliance with Regulation 14.

This extract is from MARPOL Annex VI and NTC 2008 with Guidelines for Implementation – 2017 Edition. It is for overview purposes only – ship operators are strongly recommended to confirm the latest MARPOL regulations by visiting  IMO Publications at https://www.imo.org/en/publications/Pages/Default.aspx. IMO publications are available as e-books or in hard copy.

Equivalents
1 The Administration of a Party may allow any fitting, material, appliance or apparatus to be fitted in a ship or other procedures, alternative fuel oils, or compliance methods used as an alternative to that required by this Annex if such fitting, material, appliance or apparatus or other procedures, alternative fuel oils, or compliance methods are at least as effective in terms of emissions reductions as that required by this Annex, including any of the standards set forth in regulations 13 and 14.

2 The Administration of a Party that allows a fitting, material, appliance or apparatus or other procedures, alternative fuel oils, or compliance methods used as an alternative to that required by this Annex shall communicate to the Organization for circulation to the Parties particulars thereof, for their information and appropriate action, if any.

3 The Administration of a Party should take into account any relevant guidelines developed by the Organization* pertaining to the equivalents provided for in this regulation.

4 The Administration of a Party that allows the use of an equivalent as set forth in paragraph 1 of this regulation shall endeavour not to impair or damage its environment, human health, property or resources or those of other States.

* Refer to 2015 Guidelines for exhaust gas cleaning systems (resolution MEPC.259(68)).