Our Way 1
ENVIRONMENT TEXT SOFIA LUNDGREN PHOTO ADOBE STOCK
THE BEGINNING OF THE END FOR SCRUBBER Sweden has introduced a national ban on the discharge of scrubber water into its territorial waters—a significant move as EU-level discussions gather pace. For Soya Group, which has actively advocated for such a ban, the decision marks a key step towards cleaner shipping. W 8 OUR WAY 1/2025 hen the IMO (International Maritime Organization) started introducing stricter sulphur limits for marine fuels in 2010, scrubbers were accepted as an alternative to using low-sulphur fuel. Technically, they allow compliance – but at a cost to marine ecosystems. “Scrubbers were never a good solution,” says Per Tunell, Vice President, Head of Sustainability & Business Development, Soya Group. “They simply shift the problem from the air to the sea, which contradicts the principle of seeking upstream solutions.” THIS, PER ARGUES, places scrubbers in violation of UNCLOS, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea – even if they are permitted under current IMO regulations. “UNCLOS is clear: environmental measures must not transfer harm from one domain to another. That is exactly what scrubbers do.” Beyond the ecological impacts, scrubbers pose a reputational risk to the entire maritime sector. “The industry still battles a legacy image of Per Tunell Vice President, Head of Sustainability & Business Development Soya Group pollution, especially oil spills,” says Per. “Scrubbers damage the credibility we’ve worked hard to rebuild.” Moreover, the financial incentives to install scrubbers have undermined market fairness. “Some shipowners understand the environmental downsides but install scrubbers anyway because the business case is strong,” he explains. “A ban helps level the playing field and rewards sustainable choices.” Among European shipping associations, SCRUBBERS WERE NEVER A GOOD SOLUTION. Svensk Sjöfart has taken a notably clear stance in favour of a ban – both nationally and internationally. “To my knowledge, they are the only ship owner association in in the world advocating for a ban. That’s significant,” says Per. “Their efforts have been principled and consistent, even when standing alone.” AT THE IMO’S January 2025 session, the issue of scrubber discharges was discussed. Although a global ban was not adopted, member states and organisations were encouraged to submit regulatory proposals ahead of the next session and discussions are expected to continue. “It’s only a matter of time,” Per says. “Even those defending scrubbers are now struggling to explain why.” For Soya Group, which committed early to cleaner fuel pathways – including LNG and multi-fuel capabilities – the new regulation validates a long-term vision. “It shows that doing the right thing from the start pays off. It may take time, but it’s worth it,” Per concludes.