Norwegian authorities fine shipping company for using heavy fuel in Svalbard

Norwegian authorities have issued fines to a shipping company and the master of a cargo vessel for violating the Svalbard Environment Act of 2022. This marks the first time such penalties have been imposed for having heavy fuel oil aboard a vessel in the environmentally sensitive region of Svalbard. The act aims to prevent the risk of oil spills in the Arctic area, which is known for its unique and fragile ecosystem.

Svalbard, situated between mainland Norway and the North Pole, is a popular destination for tourists and is designated as an environmental protection zone. The 2022 act specifically prohibits the use of heavy fuel oil on ships traveling to the region due to the potential environmental hazards posed by oil spills. Inspectors discovered the fuel aboard the cargo ship, identified as the Arklow Wind, during an inspection in June.

The shipping company was fined approximately $93,000, while the vessel’s master received an additional fine of $2,800. Despite not accepting the fines, the company agreed to post a guarantee for the amount. Following the provision of the guarantee, the cargo ship was allowed to depart for the UK. Svalbard, known for its mineral and coal-rich resources, has a long history of mining activities, with the last remaining coal mine in Norway scheduled to cease operations by 2025.

Source .