NETHERLANDS SET TO BAN DEGASSING OF SHIPS IN TRANSIT


As there is more focus on the environmental impact and all forms of emissions in the shipping sector, the practice known as degassing is coming under scrutiny. In particular, the Netherlands looks set to ban degassing of ships in transit.


UK SHIP REGISTER SHOWCASES NEW LOOK AS IT LAUNCHES ONLINE REGISTRATION


The UK Ship Register has released a new look Red Ensign alongside its complete online registration system. The upgrade is part of the continued modernisation of its services to ship owners and operators worldwide and bolsters its international offer. Customers are invited to use the digital UKSR portal which offers self-serve capability for registering a new vessel and renewing registration. Owners will also be able to provisionally check a vessel’s name and request transcripts online. The launch follows months of development and testing, throughout which customers were consulted and helped to shape the tool, which will add real value to their operations.


It is available for all parts of the register. Commercial and Fishing vessel operators, as well as pleasure boat owners and Bareboat Charters, will all benefit.


Last year the UK Ship Register was integrated into a wider directorate delivering world-class maritime services to the UK Fleet, headed by director Katy Ware. The updated logo unites all services under the Red Ensign and reflects the modern international service.


Katy said “We made a commitment last year to become the best performing international ship register and digitalising our services was an important next step for our customers. We have collaborated with them throughout the process and I am confident we have delivered a commercial tool that supports and adds value to their operations.”


The concerns focus on the potential for the release of harmful gasses with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the process known in the industry as degassing. Environmentalists contend that the process creates health risks for crew, workers in the port, and surrounding communities. They believe it is hazardous to the environment and creates safety risks in the port.


After unloading a liquid cargo, and before they can take on new shipments, ships need to vent their tanks to remove any remaining gas vapour. These vapours can be very dangerous and potentially explosive for the ship. In addition, the tanks need to be free of these residues from their previous shipments to ensure they are within specifications before loading commences.


According to the Dutch authorities, it is common practice for ships and especially barges and smaller vessels working on coastal and inland routes to degas while in transit. This is the practice that they are especially looking at eliminating while creating an environmentally responsible alternative for this necessary process.


“It is important to me that we quickly arrange good alternatives to releasing vapours while en route,” said Minister Van Nieuwenhuizen. “The existing procedure creates health risks for crews and local residents and is hazardous to the environment. We need to quickly determine the best alternative to this practice, and these tests will help.”


The Report • December 2020 • Issue 94 | 11


Marine News


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