Ships that are underway, berthing, or otherwise operating in the control area should strictly abide by the relevant requirements regarding air pollutant release.[File photo]

In an effort to further improve air quality, reduce air pollution emissions from ships, and promote green shipping development, Zhongshan has decided to develop a ship emission control area, as reported by the Zhongshan Ecological Environment Bureau. Regulatory measures will be taken for ships found to be releasing unauthorized air pollutants within the control area.

All navigable waters within the administrative region of Zhongshan will be included in this ship emission control area. Except for military vessels, sports boats, and fishing vessels, other ships that are underway, berthing, or otherwise operating in the control area should strictly abide by the relevant requirements regarding air pollutant release as set forth by the Ministry of Transport and the Guangdong Provincial Department of Transportation.

From January 1, 2019, ships entering the control area should use fuel with no more than 0.5%m/m sulfur content. They are further encouraged to use clean energy fuels such as natural gas.