Are you complying with Sulphur 2020?

All vessels must use fuel with a sulphur content of no more than 0.50 per cent.

This requirement started on 1 January 2020. To help reinforce this requirement, since 1 March 2020, vessels have also been prohibited from carrying fuel with a sulphur content of more than 0.50 per cent. The prohibition does not apply to fuel carried as cargo. Most diesel and petrol sold in Australia as marine fuel already contains less than 0.50 per cent sulphur.

Why has the sulphur content of marine fuel been reduced?

Sulphur oxides are released when fuel containing sulphur is burnt. In high concentrations, sulphur oxides can result in serious conditions, such as respiratory and cardiovascular disease.

Sulphur oxides can also lead to acid rain—causing damage to crops, forests and buildings and acidification of soil and freshwater aquatic environments.

The new sulphur limit will help improve air quality, particularly in coastal areas, and help to protect human health and the environment.

How do I check the sulphur content of my fuel?

If you are uncertain about the sulphur content of your fuel, you should check with your supplier.

If your vessel is 400 gross tonnage or above, your fuel supplier must give you a bunker delivery note with each fuel delivery that includes the sulphur content of the fuel supplied. AMSA maintains a national register of fuel oil suppliers that you can use to find contact details of your local supplier.

For more information visit amsa.gov.au/air-pollution Phone 1800 627 484