Effective Application of the Med SOx Emission Control Area under MARPOL Annex VI – May 01, 2025

The 1st of May 2025 marked a major milestone for the Mediterranean Sea: the effective application of the Med SOx Emission Control Area (ECA) under MARPOL Annex VI.

As of 1 May 2025, ships operating in the Mediterranean are required to use marine fuels with a sulphur content not exceeding 0.10%, significantly reducing air pollution from ships in the region.

This achievement is the result of years of dedicated regional cooperation among Mediterranean coastal States and stakeholders within the framework of the Barcelona Convention and its Prevention and Emergency Protocol, with REMPEC playing a coordinating role throughout the process.

The Med SOx ECA is expected to deliver substantial benefits for human health and the environment by:
• Cutting sulphur oxide emissions from ships by up to 78%,
• Reducing particulate matter and improving air quality,
• Protecting coastal ecosystems and supporting a healthier marine environment.

The Regional Marine Pollution Emergency Response Centre for the Mediterranean Sea (REMPEC) remains committed to supporting implementation and compliance, and we look forward to continued collaboration as the Mediterranean region advances towards cleaner and more sustainable maritime transport.

Read more here: https://www.imo.org/en/MediaCentre/Pages/WhatsNew-2254.aspx