Prince Rupert port seeks to ban open-loop scrubbers

The Port of Prince Rupert in southwest Canada has proposed a ban on open-loop scrubbers.

PHOTO: Shore power in the Port of Prince Rupert, Canada. Prince Rupert Port Authority

The Prince Rupert Port Authority has asked stakeholders for feedback on a set of proposed changes to its Port Information Guide, including a ban on open loop scrubbers. The port authority will consider comments submitted by 5 February.

Scrubbers are pollution control devices installed onto ships primarily to lower their sulphur emissions, and their use grew rapidly in the lead-up to and after IMO 2020 as they allow vessels to burn HSFO rather than more expensive low sulphur fuels. However, environmental groups have raised concerns about the discharge of open-loop scrubber wash water into marine environments, particularly those in enclosed areas with slow water flow.

If the proposed changes are approved, the Port of Prince Rupert will join the Port of Vancouver in restricting scrubber usage within a year. Vancouver, the busiest port in Canada, banned vessels from releasing scrubber washwater while anchored or at berth within the port.

Closed-loop scrubbers that do not release washwater will still be allowed in the Port of Prince Rupert.

By Debarati Bhattacharjee

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