Amid growing concerns from residents about the impact of cruise ship emissions on the British Virgin Islands’ air quality, an assessment conducted by the Environmental Health Division has confirmed that emissions from the Norwegian Epic are within normal safety ranges.
The assessment, carried out on Wednesday, February 26, was initiated at the request of the Ministry of Communications and Works following reports of a visible white plume emitted from the vessel. Officials tested air quality for carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide, ensuring that the ship’s emissions were not compromising the health and safety of passengers or the local community.
Findings Confirm No Harmful Emissions
The Environmental Health Division reported that all readings were within acceptable limits. The white plume observed was identified as water vapor, a byproduct of the ship’s Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS), commonly known as scrubbers. This system is designed to significantly reduce sulfur oxide emissions, ensuring compliance with International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards and MARPOL Annex VI regulations.
Officials also confirmed that the ship’s Environmental Officer fully cooperated, providing key documents, including the EGCS emissions report and Certificate of Conformity, verifying the vessel’s adherence to international environmental standards.
Recommendations for Further Emission Reductions
In a proactive effort to enhance air quality at the port, the Environmental Health Division recommended that the Norwegian Epic switch from using scrubbers to low-sulfur fuel while at berth.
The ship’s Environmental Officer expressed a willingness to comply, stating that the vessel will transition to marine gas oil within one hour of docking and switch back an hour before departure on future visits to Tortola.