Ocean going vessels run on residual oil, whose sulphur content is 2.8% on average. The emission of these vessels while at berth accounts for about 40% of their total emission within Hong Kong waters. To reduce marine emission, the Hong Kong Government is encouraging ocean going vessels to use fuel with sulphur content not more than 0.5% while at berth in Hong Kong waters by a 3-year incentive scheme that reduces the port facilities and light dues of OGVs that have adopted this green practice. The use of low sulphur fuel can substantially reduce air pollution at locations close to their berthing areas.
All vessels must submit a registration form to the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) before joining the scheme. This is a one-off exercise. EPD will publicize the names of registered vessels in a List of Registered Vessels on its website after 5 working days. Shipowners, vessel operators or shipping agents will be eligible to apply for the incentive after their vessel names have been put on this List of Registered Vessels.