JULY 2017 • FOGHORN 19 FOGHORNFOCUS: ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES T here’s been a lot talk about envi- ronmental issues this year with bold headlines coming from every news outlet. Reducing emissions is a major concern around the world and cleaner burning engines, including the marine diesel engines that power most passenger vessels, are a global priority. Yet, while there are significant policies changes afoot on national and global levels, not much will change for domestic passenger vessel operators in the United States regarding engine emission regulations. You may recall that years ago the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) adopted exhaust emission standards for marine diesel engines installed in a variety of marine vessels ranging in size and application from small recreational vessels, tugboats, ocean-going vessels, and passenger vessels. These domestic emission standards apply for engines installed on U.S. vessels. To meet the standards, the EPA initiated a series of emission regulations aimed at significantly reducing air pollutants, particularly nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM), which are the prime pol- lutants from diesel engines. The regu- lations offered a phased-in approach, with Tier 1 regulations published in 1996. Since then, allowable emission levels have markedly decreased as each tier requirement has come into effect. This phased-in approach provided engine manufacturers needed time to develop technological advancements to engineer cleaner burning products. In addition, California has also demanded cleaner burning engines in order to combat air pollution locally. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is the most stringent and in 2000, approved a comprehensive Diesel Risk Reduction Plan to reduce diesel emissions from both new and existing No Change to Reducing Engine Emissions Regulations By Karen Rainbolt, FOGHORN Managing Editor +1 920.686.5117 sales@burgerboat.com burgerboat.com/commercial Proudly built in the USA Burger is recognized worldwide for quality custom vessels that provide years of dependable service. Quality Commercial Vessels... Built by Burger to Your Requirements • Aluminum and Steel Fabrication • Passenger Vessels • Research Vessels • Fast Crew Boats • Fast Supply Boats • Wind Farm Support Vessels • Fishing Vessels • Other Vessels to 260' (80m) Under Construction 103’ (31m) Steel Explorer Vessel