White smoke coming from the Norwegian Epic cruise ship while it was docked in Road Town last week sparked concern in the community, but government health officials carried out tests and said there was no cause for alarm.
On Feb. 26, the Communications and Works Ministry asked the Environmental Health Division to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the white plume observed coming from the ship, according to government.
“The assessment included measurements for carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds, particulate matter and carbon monoxide,” according to a government press release issued last Thursday. “This was to ensure that the air quality was not being compromised by the ship’s emissions.”
The EHD subsequently announced that the readings were within “normal ranges” and that the smoke didn’t pose a threat to the safety of passengers or residents.
“The visible plume is primarily composed of water vapour, a by-product of the ship’s Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS), commonly referred to as scrubbers,” the EHD stated in its report. “This technology is designed to significantly reduce sulphur oxide emissions, ensuring compliance with International Maritime Organization standards and [the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships].”
Ship’s documentation
The agency added that the ship’s environmental officer had cooperated fully by providing documentation including the EGCS emissions report and “certificate of conformity.”
“This confirms the vessel’s adherence to international environmental regulations,” the press release stated.
Nevertheless, the EHD recommended that the ship switch from using scrubbers to using low-sulphur fuel while berthed in order to “further enhance air quality” at the port.
The ship’s environmental officer “indicated a willingness” to consider the recommendation, with plans to “switch to marine gas oil within one hour of berthing and revert back one hour prior to departure” when visiting Tortola in the future, according to government.
“This proactive approach demonstrates the commitment of both the Norwegian Epic and local authorities to maintaining a clean and healthy environment for all,” the press release added.