As of May 1, 2025, the Mediterranean Sea has officially been designated as an Emission Control Area (ECA) for sulfur oxides and particulate matter, known as the Med Sox ECA. Ships operating in this region are now required to limit the sulfur content in their fuel to 0.1%. This significant regulation aims to mitigate air pollution and enhance both human health and marine ecosystems.
The implementation of the Med Sox ECA mandates stringent measures to curb air pollution from vessels. The allowable sulfur content is notably stricter than the global standard, which permits 0.50%. By reducing sulfur oxide emissions, this initiative is expected to lower the incidence of respiratory diseases, such as lung cancer and asthma, while also benefiting the environment by reducing acidification that harms aquatic life and forests.
The Mediterranean Sea is a critical maritime corridor, accommodating 20% of global maritime traffic, with over 17% of worldwide cruise ships and 24% of the global fleet navigating its waters. The Med Sox ECA marks the fifth designated area under MARPOL Annex VI, joining others like the Baltic Sea and the North American ECA, with additional areas recognized by the IMO in recent years.
