Transport & Environment

Emissions from Maritime Transport

Amendment of Directive 1999/32/EC
(relating to a reduction of the sulphur content of certain liquid fuels)

On 15 July 2011 the Commission adopted a proposal for an amendment of Directive 1999/32/EC

This amendment will

• align the Directive with the latest IMO provisions on the sulphur content of marine fuels;
• adapt the Directive to the IMO provisions on alternative compliance methods;
• maintain the link between the stricter fuel standards in SECAs and the fuel requirements for passenger ships on regular service;

• improve implementation of the Directive by harmonising and strengthening provisions for monitoring of compliance and reporting.

The legal proposal is accompanied by

• a Communication from the Commission on the review of the implementation of Directive 1999/32/EC related to the Sulphur Content of Certain Liquid Fuels and on further pollutant emission reduction from maritime transport
• an Impact Assessment that analyses the current situation, defines objectives and develops and assesses policy options
• a Summary of the Impact Assessment

• a Citizen's Summary

See also Press Release & Questions and Answers