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<p>The Department and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, played an active role in
the development of the Guidelines for the use of scrubbing technology at both European
and international level. Ships’ installed scrubbers must be approved in accordance
with the Guidelines before operating in UK waters.</p><p> </p><p>Along with other
European States, we recognise that more ship owners are installing these systems in
order to comply with the 0.5% sulphur cap, and that large numbers of ships using scrubbers
in enclosed waters might have an impact on local water quality. This is why we have
asked for more evidence from ship owners and industry associations about the content
of wash water, and there are a number of ongoing studies being undertaken by the industry
on the issue. At this stage, we are not aware of any significant issues which have
been found, but we will seek further amendments to the IMO Guidelines if it becomes
clear that additional controls are needed.</p><p> </p>
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