IMO: Prohibition on heavy fuel oil (HFO) in Arctic waters enters into effect

On 17 June 2021, Resolution MEPC.329(76) was adopted and included amendments to Annex I of the 1973 International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships as modified by the 1978 Protocol (MARPOL). The amendments concerned a prohibition on the use and carriage for use as fuel of heavy fuel oil by ships in Arctic waters. The prohibition came into effect on 1 July 2024, subject to certain functional exemptions (MARPOL Annex I, Regulation 43A(1)), construction standard-based extensions (Regulation 43A(2); 1 July 2029) and an optional temporary waiver right for Arctic coastal States limited to ships flying their flag while operating in their maritime zones (Regulation 43A(4)-(5); 1 July 2029).