The Swedish Government Bans Discharges from Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems in Territorial Waters

The Swedish government recently announced a ban on discharges from exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCSs) in Swedish territorial waters. This move is aimed at protecting the marine environment from harmful pollutants.

Effective July 1, 2025, discharges from open-loop scrubbers will be prohibited in Swedish territorial waters. Furthermore, starting January 1, 2029, discharges from all types of scrubbers will be banned in these waters.

The decision to implement the ban was made in accordance with the government’s marine environment bill. A proposal to prohibit discharges from EGCSs was submitted in June 2024, and the necessary regulations have now been amended to enforce the ban.

Andreas Carlson, Minister for Infrastructure and Housing, stated, “We are now prohibiting ships from discharging scrubber water into Swedish waters. This decision is crucial for preserving our marine environment and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.”

Romina Pourmokhtari, Minister for Climate and Environment, emphasized the importance of the ban in protecting the marine ecosystem. Meanwhile, Maria Granberg, a Marine Ecotoxicologist, hailed the decision as a significant step towards safeguarding Sweden’s coastal areas.

Scrubbers are installed on ships to clean exhaust gases, reducing sulfur levels in emissions. However, the discharge of scrubber wash water into the sea poses environmental risks. Both open-loop and closed-loop scrubbers produce wastewater containing hazardous substances.

The Swedish government is actively engaging in international efforts to reduce emissions from scrubbers on a global scale. A global ban on scrubber emissions would not only protect marine environments but also promote the use of eco-friendly fuel alternatives.

Sweden’s decision to ban scrubber discharges follows similar actions by Finland and Denmark. Finland recently passed a bill prohibiting wastewater discharges from cargo vessels into the Baltic Sea within its territorial waters, effective July 2025.

In conclusion, the Swedish government’s ban on discharges from EGCSs signifies a significant milestone in marine environmental protection. By taking proactive measures to reduce pollution from scrubbers, Sweden is setting an example for sustainable maritime practices.