Americas News
U.S. EPA Issues ECA Penalty Policy
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued its penalty policy for violations by ships of new, 2015 Emissions Control Area (ECA) rules.
Ships will be subject to a maximum fine of $25,000 per violation, per day.
"This policy is intended to deter potential violators, ensure that the EPA assesses fair and equitable penalties and allow for the swift resolution of claims arising from noncompliance," said EPA in a statement.
"EPA is committed to enforcing marine emission standards."
Primary violations include exceeding the allowable sulfur limit of bunkers being burnt within U.S. mainland waters, which from January 1 this year has been 0.10 percent by weight, and failing to keep proper records.
Penalties for exceeding the sulfur limit will be calculated based on the cost saved by the offending ship of burning cheaper bunkers, plus an element based on the seriousness of the offence.
Failing to keep proper records will see ships levied between $2,500 and $15,000 per violation, per day.
Penalties will be multiplied for serious or serial offenders.
EPA said it reserved the right to levy fines even where it would put shipowners into financial distress.
The California Air Resouces Board Tuesday announced it had fined four shippers a total of $147,000 for non-compliance with state sulfur regulations.
