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The IMO’s Pollution Prevention and Response Sub-Committee (PPR 13), which concluded on February 13, signaled a meaningful evolution in how environmental performance may be assessed across global shipping. Rather than focusing primarily on installed equipment or fuel type, discussions reflected growing emphasis on how vessels are actually operated over their full lifecycle.

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A renewed focus on biofouling management underscored this shift. Hull condition directly affects fuel efficiency, emissions intensity and invasive species risk, bringing routine maintenance practices into the broader performance conversation. Environmental compliance is increasingly intersecting with operational discipline.

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Arctic discussions revealed a similar trajectory. While a formal polar fuel standard has not yet been adopted, continued work on black carbon measurement methodologies and heavy fuel oil restrictions suggests mounting pressure to move away from high-soot fuels in sensitive regions.

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The use of ship scrubbers also remains under active review and debate, particularly regarding their environmental impact. Where scrubbers were once seen as a solution for compliance by many, open-loop scrubbers continue to be scrutinized and their feasibility is diminishing. Navigating the future of regional regulations complicates shipowners investment strategies and compliance strategies.

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Discussion topics from the meeting clearly reflected a broader trend: environmental performance is shifting from hardware-based compliance toward operational accountability.

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Read more at gCaptain

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Clean&Green™ Deep Dive:  Check out how Hudson stays ahead of biofouling management by Investing In Upgrades: A Clean&Green™ Movement! – then take a look back at Hudson’s forward-thinking pledge to say no scrubbers: Hudson IMO 2020 Sulphur Cap Compliance Statement.

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