Reducing black carbon emissions from Arctic shipping: solutions and policy implications
In: Journal of Cleaner Production. Butterworth-Heinemann: Oxford. ISSN 0959-6526; e-ISSN 1879-1786, more
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| Keyword |
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| Author keywords |
Black carbon; Emission reduction; Arctic shipping; Policy implication |
| Authors | | Top |
- Zhang, Q.
- Wan, Z.
- Hemmings, B.
- Abbasov, F.
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| Abstract |
As the most efficient atmospheric particulate matter to absorb visible light among shipping air pollutants, black carbon (BC) can significantly affect the Arctic climate because of its strong effect on reducing snow albedo. Thus, mitigation efforts to curb BC emissions from Arctic shipping have elicited considerable research interest. In this study, we revisit potential technical and operational solutions to reduce BC emission from shipping. Possible barriers to the main solutions that are applicable to Arctic shipping are discussed. We argue that Arctic shipping, which operates in a sensitive region with complicated navigational conditions, can affect the practical performance of BC abatement solutions. On the basis of a comprehensive analysis, this study mainly recommends that 1) combinations of technical and operational solutions are encouraged, but empirical studies are needed to test the effectiveness of those abatement technologies in the Arctic; 2) given the potential costs and average robust BC reduction performance, the switch from heavy fuel oil to distillate fuels should be prioritized for adoption by shipowners; 3) low impact and fuel efficient fishing needs to be introduced for fishing vessels, which are the largest fleet in the Arctic, to improve fishing practices and gears; and 4) regional actions and global cooperation are imperative for the governance of Arctic shipping. |
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