IMO Adopts Accelerated Single-Hull Tanker Phase-Out

The IMO issued a News Release stating that the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) adopted a revised, accelerated phase-out for single-hull tankers, along with other measures including an extended application of the Condition Assessment Scheme (CAS) for tankers and a new regulation banning the carriage of Heavy Grades of Oil (HGO) in single-hull tankers. The final phasing-out of Category 1 (pre-MARPOL) tankers was brought forward from 2007 to 2005. The final phasing-out of Category 2 (MARPOL) and 3 (smaller) tankers was brought forward from 2015 to 2010, but exceptions apply for certain tankers completing a satisfactory CAS. The ban on carriage of HGO in single-hull tankers would take effect on 4 April 2005, but exceptions apply for certain tankers completing a satisfactory CAS. Source: HK Law