Canada bans use and carriage of heavy fuel oil in the Arctic

The Government of Canada is moving forward with a domestic ban on the use and carriage for use as fuel of heavy fuel oils (HFO) in Arctic waters, which was implemented July 1.

The ban was applied through an interim order while the regulations are being amended. All double hulled ships will be exempted from the HFO ban until July 1, 2029, and ships involved in Arctic community resupply can apply for a waiver until July 1, 2026.

“Banning heavy fuel oils will protect the Arctic environment and northern communities from the disastrous effects of heavy fuel oil spills,” says Pablo Rodriguez, minister of transport. “Canada will always work with other countries, northern residents and marine stakeholders to keep our environment protected for future generations. ”

The government says decarbonizing the marine sector is a key part of growing a clean net-zero economy that requires sector-wide collaboration and innovation to reduce the impact of shipping emissions on surrounding communities and ecosystems, while supporting economic growth.