In a significant stride toward understanding the environmental impact of shipping, a recent study led by Nkosinathi Michael Manqele from the Department of Maritime Studies at the Durban University of Technology sheds light on the marine mobile emissions from Durban Port, South Africa. This research, published in the journal ‘Atmosphere,’ aims to quantify emissions from ocean-going vessels (OGVs) operating in and around one of sub-Saharan Africa’s busiest ports.
Durban Port, a critical hub for around 60% of South Africa’s containerized cargo, is nestled close to the central business district. While this proximity brings economic benefits, it also raises concerns about air quality and public health, particularly in the wake of historical industrial practices rooted in the apartheid era. The study highlights that emissions from marine sources often go unmeasured, which can lead to a skewed understanding of their impact on air quality.
Manqele and his team employed a mid-tier, activity-based approach to estimate emissions over a full year, from January 1 to December 31, 2018. They focused on four regulated pollutants—nitrogen oxides (NOX), sulfur dioxide (SO2), hydrocarbons (HC), and particulate matter (PM10)—as well as carbon dioxide (CO2), a greenhouse gas. By analyzing operational data from individual vessels, including their speed and activity duration, the researchers were able to create a more nuanced picture of emissions than previous studies, which often relied on broader estimates.
“The contribution of OGVs can therefore be significant when considered with other sources and therefore cannot be ignored in a cumulative assessment,” Manqele stated, emphasizing the importance of this research in shaping policies and practices for better air quality management.
While the study found that the annual ambient concentrations of these pollutants did not exceed national air quality standards, the results indicate that shipping emissions still play a crucial role in the overall air quality landscape. This is particularly relevant for maritime professionals and port authorities, as it suggests that ongoing monitoring and management of emissions from shipping activities are essential.
For the maritime sector, this research opens up commercial opportunities, particularly in the realm of emissions control technologies and sustainable shipping practices. Ports and shipping companies could invest in cleaner technologies or alternative fuels to mitigate their environmental impact, potentially gaining a competitive edge in an increasingly eco-conscious market.
Moreover, the study’s findings underscore the need for more detailed assessments in the future. Manqele recommends adopting a more granular approach that considers emissions on a ship-by-ship basis, which would provide even clearer insights into the contributions of individual vessels to overall emissions. This could lead to more targeted strategies for emissions reduction, aligning with global trends toward sustainability and regulatory compliance.
In a world where environmental concerns are becoming more pressing, understanding the dynamics of marine mobile emissions is not just an academic exercise; it’s a call to action for the maritime industry. As Manqele pointed out, “The methodology used in this study…is an improvement on top-down fuel-based assessments.” With the right data and resources, the maritime sector can turn this research into tangible benefits for both business and community health, paving the way for a greener future in shipping.
