By
Cherie Rowlands |
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) decided at its 64th session during 1-5 October to proceed with a system of Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) methods specifically for ro-ro cargo and ropax vessels, a move welcomed by trade association Interferry.
The association collaborated with flag states and industry bodies in a working group to assess seven proposals that offered a fair and sustainable EEDI formula without penalising the specialised requirements of ro-ro operation. Interferry supported a proposal by Germany, Sweden and the Community of European Shipyards’ Associations, which has been recognised by the IMO as the best option to progress.
“Our approach to a workable EEDI solution for ro-ro vessels was two-fold. Obviously it had to bring about absolute efficiency gains and a consequent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, Interferry executive director of EU and IMO affairs Johan Roos said. “But we also had to ensure that new ships can be built for all ro-ro markets taking into account any external factors - such as limitations on draught or length, or the need for having enhanced power to operate in tidal areas or across very busy straights.” These technical requirements will be finalised by Interferry at the next MEPC session in May 2013 said Roos.
EEDI requirements for other ship types, which comes into force on 1 January 2013, was agreed during an earlier MEPC session at which extra time was also approved for agreeing the ro-ro requirements.