Royal Arctic Line phases out heavy fuel oil early
Greenland’s Royal Arctic Line has announced it will stop using heavy fuel oil (HFO) well ahead of the 2029 IMO ban, setting a strong precedent for Arctic shipping. The Clean Arctic Alliance welcomed the move, highlighting its impact on preventing spills and cutting black carbon emissions—a major driver of Arctic ice melt. Though the HFO ban officially began in 2024, broad exemptions mean up to 74% of Arctic vessels can continue using the pollutant for years.
Dr Sian Prior, Lead Advisor to the Alliance, praised the step: "Royal Arctic Line is showing what real leadership looks like." The company’s shift to cleaner fuels supports both climate and regional marine safety. Environmental groups are now urging other Arctic operators and IMO member states to fully enforce the ban and avoid using waivers. (ah)