Hong Kong Considers Low-Sulfur Mandate

Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying made the policy address earlier this week.

Hong Kong public policy think tank Civic Exchange said it welcomes new measures to curb air pollution discussed by Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying in his maiden policy address earlier this week.

In the address, Leung said making the switch to low-sulfur fuel for vessels at berth mandatory was one of a number of general environmental measures the government is considering.

"Civic Exchange supports government's decision to regulate ocean-going vessels to switching to low sulphur fuel while at berth in Hong Kong, which is a major policy breakthrough in ship emissions control," the organisation said.

The think tank estimated that the mandatory use of the fuel would reduce sulfur dioxide emissions from ocean-going vessels by 33 percent and reduce particulates emissions by 25 percent.

Civic Exchange also praised government support for the use of low-sulfur fuel by local vessels and plans to install on-shore power for cruise ships at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, which will open this summer.

"It is important as cruise ships are a major source of ship emissions in Hong Kong, contributing about 10% sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and particulates emissions among all ocean-going vessels," it said.

"Larger cruise ships using the new Cruise Terminal will pose significant emissions and health impacts on the residents living in neighbouring communities."

Shipping companies including Maersk Line have said Hong Kong's current voluntary program, which provides incentives for companies that switch to low-sulfur fuel, puts them at a disadvantage compared with companies that choose not to participate because the incentive payments do not cover the cost of switching.