World Shipping Council - Partners in Trade

Air Emissions

The World Shipping Council and its members have been leaders in calling for the establishment of stringent international standards controlling air emissions from ships. In 2007, the WSC supported the most stringent standards ever proposed for nitrogen oxides (NO_x), sulfur oxides (SO_x), and particulate matter (PM) emissions from ships. The Council recently supported creation of an Emission Control Area for North America and is now working with governments and other organizations on the development of a legally-binding global agreement addressing CO₂ emissions from shipping.

NO_x, SO_x & PM

Oxides of nitrogen (NO_x), sulfur oxides (SO_x), and particulate matter (PM) are by-products of combustion associated with engines used on ships and other transportation modes. NO_x emissions from diesel engines are a function of engine design and are generally controlled through standards established for new engines. SO_x and PM emissions are heavily influenced by the fuel used and its relative sulfur content. Standards for these and other air emissions are established by the International Maritime Organization as well as national and regional authorities. Learn more

Carbon Emissions

Maritime traffic accounts for approximately 2.7% of the world's CO₂ emissions and liner shipping accounts for approximately ¼ of the total 2.7% associated with all maritime traffic. Like other air emissions discussed above, CO₂ is produced as ships use petroleum based fuels to power both main and auxiliary engines. The World Shipping Council and its members are engaged in numerous efforts to reduce CO₂, improve efficiency, and are working to secure a global agreement addressing CO₂ emissions from ships through the International Maritime Organization. Learn more