Ferries' Sulphur Emissions Exceed Cars in Major EU Capitals

Recent analysis by Transport & Environment (T&E) reveals that ferries are a significant source of sulphur pollution in several major European capitals, surpassing emissions from road vehicles. Cities such as Dublin, Helsinki, Stockholm, and Tallinn are among 13 of the 15 largest port cities in Europe where ferries contribute more to sulphur oxides (SOx) pollution than cars. The ageing fleet of nearly 2,000 ferries across Europe is identified as a largely overlooked contributor to air quality issues in coastal urban areas.

The Guardian

Sulphur oxides, which emit a distinct odor reminiscent of burnt matches and rotten eggs, can form tiny particles that penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially causing widespread health issues. The report highlights that while emissions controls have led to a 70% reduction in sulphur emissions since 2014, the current pollution levels from ferries remain concerning.

The Guardian

The T&E analysis suggests that transitioning to electric ferries could significantly reduce emissions. It indicates that it would be "technically feasible and cost-effective" to electrify 20% of Europe’s ferries by 2025, with the potential to increase to 43% by 2030 as battery technology advances. Felix Klann, a shipping policy analyst at T&E, emphasized the need for ferries to serve communities without contributing to pollution, stating, “Electrifying them could dramatically cut emissions and bring a breath of fresh air to millions of people.”

The Guardian

Despite the potential benefits, the report identifies charging infrastructure as a primary barrier to the electrification of ferries. Most ports would require only small chargers below 5MW to support this transition. Sotiris Raptis, secretary-general of the European Community Shipowners’ Association, noted that while the EU has set ambitious policies for electrification, substantial investments are necessary to facilitate this energy transition in the shipping sector.

The Guardian

Some ports are already taking steps towards electrification. For instance, the Port of Stockholm has been utilizing onshore power supply since the 1980s, significantly reducing emissions. Similarly, the Port of Tallinn has invested in onshore power at multiple quays and is assessing further solutions for electric or hybrid ferries on the busy Tallinn-Helsinki route. The first hybrid vessel is expected to start operations in early 2026, demonstrating a commitment to cleaner alternatives.

The Guardian

Ingrid Hansson from the Ports of Stockholm stated that many ferry operators are compliant with sulphur content thresholds, while Ellen Kaasik from the Port of Tallinn highlighted ongoing investments in infrastructure to support electrification. Andreas Slotte from the Port of Helsinki emphasized the need for collaboration with shipping companies to effectively plan and build the necessary charging infrastructure.

The Guardian

While the T&E report provides a comprehensive overview of the emissions from ferries, it does not address the specific emissions data from all ports or the exact number of ferries currently operating under compliant sulphur thresholds. Additionally, the response from the Port of Dublin was not available, leaving a gap in understanding the situation in that region.

The Guardian

• “Ferries should connect communities, not pollute them,” — Felix Klann, Shipping Policy Analyst, Transport & Environment

The Guardian

• “What we are missing is investment in clean fuels, energy and infrastructure in ports to support electrification.” — Sotiris Raptis, Secretary-General, European Community Shipowners’ Association

The Guardian

• “Today, a large proportion of regular ferry services calling at Ports of Stockholm connect to onshore power while at berth, significantly reducing emissions of carbon dioxide, sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides in the port area.” — Ingrid Hansson, Spokesperson, Ports of Stockholm

The Guardian

• “Charging infrastructure cannot be planned and built in a vacuum,” — Andreas Slotte, Head of Sustainability, Port of Helsinki

The Guardian