environment
Ferries emit ‘more sulphur pollution than cars’ in several EU capitals
Dublin, Helsinki, Stockholm and Tallinn among port cities more choked by sulphur oxides from ferries, analysis shows
TL;DR
- Ferries are a major, overlooked source of air pollution in European coastal cities.
- Sulfur oxides (SOx) from ferries contribute to toxic air pollution that penetrates the lungs and damages the body.
- Dublin, Helsinki, Stockholm, and Tallinn are among 13 of Europe's 15 largest port cities where ferries cause more SOx pollution than cars.
- Electrifying 20% of Europe's ferries is technically feasible by 2025 and could rise to 43% by 2030.
- The main barrier to electrification is the requirement for charging infrastructure, though most ports would need small chargers.
- Despite challenges, several ports like Dublin, Stockholm, and Tallinn are investing in or planning for shoreside power and electric/hybrid ferry solutions.
- Industry representatives highlight the need for "enormous" investments and cooperation between ports and shipping companies for the energy transition.