Application of remote measurements for compliance monitoring and enforcement of SO2 and NOx emissions under MARPOL Annex VI

Promovendus/a: Ward Van Roy

Promotor(en): Prof. Frank Maes

This doctoral thesis explores the use of remote measurements for the compliance monitoring of ship emission regulations. Technical solutions and methodologies were developed for the measurement of ship emissions with the Belgian coastguard aircraft. The research demonstrated the effectiveness of airborne monitoring in an operational context. The airborne monitoring has been proven to provide a substantial added value for the port inspection authorities, leading to a more efficient and cost effective enforcement strategy. The airborne measurement were applied to evaluate the effectiveness of the international regulations in improving air quality in Belgium and the North and Baltic Sea. The monitoring results also illustrate certain compliance issues. Finally, the thesis formulates recommendations on guidelines for 1) the use of remote measurements for the enforcement of emission regulations and 2) addressing regulatory gaps within the current regulations, these recommendations will be presented to the IMO.