Recent meetings of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) have produced some of the most significant and sometimes controversial decisions affecting the global shipping industry. MEPC 79, held from 12–16 December 2022, was no exception.
While several long-discussed measures moved forward, delegates also expressed differing opinions on topics that previously appeared largely settled. Discussions covered sulphur emissions, greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets, scrubber regulations, ballast water management, marine plastic pollution, and updates to MARPOL regulations that will impact shipowners, operators, and equipment manufacturers in the years ahead.
Mediterranean Emission Control Area Approved
One of the most significant outcomes of MEPC 79 was the approval of a new Mediterranean Sulphur Emission Control Area (SECA).
The new regulations will require vessels operating within the designated area to use fuel with a sulphur content not exceeding 0.10% or alternatively operate approved exhaust gas cleaning systems (scrubbers).
The amendments are scheduled to:
- Enter into force on 1 May 2024
- Become mandatory from 1 May 2025
MEPC 79 also agreed in principle to designate the North-Western Mediterranean Sea as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA), although further protective measures still need to be developed before final designation.
Potential Impact on Shipping Routes
While the establishment of the Mediterranean SECA was widely expected, it could influence future vessel routing decisions.
Many operators already face increasing operating costs due to:
- Rising fuel prices
- Suez Canal transit fees
- Global freight market fluctuations
The requirement to use more expensive low-sulphur fuels throughout the Mediterranean may encourage some operators to evaluate alternative routing options around Africa, particularly when freight rates remain under pressure.
Scrubbers Remain Under Industry Scrutiny
Future of Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems
Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (EGCS), commonly known as scrubbers, remained a major topic of discussion during MEPC 79.
Some member states called for stricter controls or potential restrictions on scrubber use due to concerns regarding washwater discharges and marine pollution. However, no formal decisions were taken during the meeting.
Instead, the IMO agreed that additional technical reviews and scientific assessments would continue through future sub-committee discussions.
Most industry observers consider it unlikely that the IMO would require the removal of scrubbers already installed and operating in compliance with existing regulations.
The ongoing debate remains closely linked to wider developments in oil in water monitoring and environmental discharge control technologies.
Carbon Capture and Future GHG Measures
Growing Interest in Carbon Capture Technology
MEPC 79 briefly discussed onboard carbon capture technologies as part of wider greenhouse gas reduction initiatives.
Although no formal decisions were reached, the topic was deferred to future MEPC meetings for additional evaluation.
The discussion is particularly relevant as some exhaust gas cleaning system manufacturers are already investigating integrated carbon capture solutions that could help vessels meet future decarbonisation requirements.
Debate Over Shipping Decarbonisation Targets
One of the most closely watched discussions focused on the IMO’s long-term greenhouse gas reduction strategy.
While previous IMO ambitions targeted full decarbonisation around 2050, several delegates called for additional feasibility studies and economic impact assessments before committing to more aggressive timelines.
Rising global energy costs, inflationary pressures, and concerns about fuel availability appear to be influencing many governments’ positions regarding future decarbonisation pathways.
GHG Levy Proposals Continue
Several proposals were submitted regarding future greenhouse gas reduction mechanisms.
Among the most widely supported ideas was the introduction of a carbon levy system designed to:
- Encourage adoption of low-carbon fuels
- Support maritime decarbonisation projects
- Create incentives for cleaner vessel operations
Discussions also explored whether emissions should be measured on a:
- Tank-to-Wake basis (vessel emissions only)
- Well-to-Wake basis (including fuel production emissions)
Further technical work will continue before recommendations are presented at future MEPC sessions.
Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) Concerns Continue
Industry criticism of the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) framework continued during MEPC 79.
Several shipowners and maritime organisations argued that the current calculation methodology may unfairly penalise certain vessel types and trading patterns.
Given the differing opinions among stakeholders, major revisions to the CII framework are unlikely before the scheduled review process in 2025.
For now, the IMO has maintained its position that enforcement actions against vessels receiving D or E ratings are not appropriate.
Potential Changes to Bilge Alarm Requirements
MEPC.107(49) Review Underway
One of the most important technical discussions for ship operators involved potential amendments to MEPC.107(49) bilge alarm requirements.
China submitted proposals highlighting situations where 15ppm bilge alarms may fail to activate if sample water flow is interrupted.
In these scenarios:
- The oily water separator may continue operating normally.
- The oil content monitor receives no representative sample.
- Untested discharge water could potentially be released overboard.
This creates a compliance risk under MARPOL Annex I requirements.
Flow Monitoring Solutions
A practical solution already used on many vessels involves installing flow or pressure monitoring devices capable of detecting interruptions to the sample stream.
These devices automatically trigger alarms when sample flow is lost, helping maintain accurate monitoring and ensuring proper operation of the Oil Content Monitor (OCM).
MEPC 79 agreed that the issue should be added to the future work programme, with further discussions continuing at MEPC 80.
Fuel Documentation Requirements Updated
MEPC 79 adopted amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, Appendix V relating to Bunker Delivery Notes (BDNs).
The revised requirements will require BDNs to include:
- The fuel oil flashpoint; or
- Confirmation that the flashpoint exceeds 70°C
The amendments will enter into force on 1 May 2024.
Marine Plastic Pollution Initiatives
The committee also continued work on reducing marine plastic litter from ships.
MEPC 79 agreed to revise the scope of the IMO study on marine plastic pollution by adopting a more focused, step-by-step approach aimed at addressing specific data gaps.
Member states and industry organisations were invited to submit proposals ahead of future committee meetings.
Ballast Water Management Updates
Ballast Water Treatment Systems
MEPC 79 approved several ballast water treatment systems and continued discussions on how ships should manage ballast operations when operating in challenging water quality conditions.
The revised ballast water type-approval process recognises that some environmental conditions may temporarily prevent treatment systems from consistently achieving D-2 compliance.
The IMO emphasised that:
- Ships should return to D-2 compliance as soon as possible.
- Bypassing ballast water treatment systems should only occur as a last resort.
- Communication with port authorities remains essential.
Temporary Storage of Sewage and Grey Water
An additional development was agreement in principle that ballast tanks may be used for temporary storage of treated sewage and grey water under specific circumstances.
Further guidance will be developed to ensure compliance with Ballast Water Management Convention requirements.
Ballast Water Record Book Changes
MEPC 79 also agreed to revise the format of ballast water record books to align more closely with existing oil record book formats.
Formal adoption of these amendments was scheduled for MEPC 80.
Future MARPOL Annex II Revisions
The committee additionally approved future work aimed at improving:
- Cargo tank stripping procedures
- Tank washing operations
- Prewash requirements for high-viscosity products
These updates will support improved environmental protection and operational efficiency under MARPOL Annex II.
Conclusion
MEPC 79 delivered several important developments that will influence shipping operations, environmental compliance, and future vessel investments.
From the creation of the Mediterranean SECA and ongoing scrubber discussions to potential updates to bilge alarm requirements and ballast water management procedures, the meeting highlighted the IMO’s continuing focus on balancing environmental protection with practical maritime operations.
Shipowners and operators should continue monitoring developments as many of these initiatives progress through future MEPC meetings and eventually become binding international requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Mediterranean SECA?
The Mediterranean Sulphur Emission Control Area requires ships to use fuel with a sulphur content of 0.10% or lower, or use approved scrubber systems.
When does the Mediterranean SECA become effective?
The amendments enter into force on 1 May 2024 and become mandatory on 1 May 2025.
What is a 15ppm bilge alarm?
A 15ppm bilge alarm monitors oil content in discharged bilge water and automatically prevents overboard discharge when oil concentrations exceed permitted limits.
Why is IMO reviewing bilge alarm requirements?
Concerns were raised that blocked sample lines may prevent oil content monitors from receiving representative samples, creating compliance risks.
What changes were made to Ballast Water Management requirements?
MEPC 79 approved additional ballast water treatment systems, discussed challenging water conditions, and proposed updates to ballast water record books.
Will the IMO ban scrubbers?
No ban was approved at MEPC 79. Further studies and discussions are continuing regarding scrubber washwater discharges and environmental impacts.