Crowley Maritime Corp. announced its membership in the Trident Alliance, a coalition of shipping owners and operators that share a common interest in robust enforcement of existing maritime sulphur regulations. In joining, Crowley said it has signed a statement of commitment, certifying that the company agrees to comply with sulfur regulations and support the robust and transparent enforcement of these regulations.
Because sulphur-restricting regulations have resulted in increased fuel costs for shipping companies, many unscrupulous operators have violated regulations by burning cheaper, noncompliant, higher sulfur fuels. Doing so not only results in increases in harmful emissions, but also places companies that are committed to complying with fuel sulfur restrictions, like Crowley, at a competitive disadvantage. The Trident Alliance is committed to improve enforcement of these regulations in an effort to hold every operator accountable and eliminate the competitive disadvantages that result from deliberate non-compliance.
“Crowley’s decision to align itself with the Trident Alliance makes sense on many levels,” explained Mike Roberts, Crowley’s senior vice president and general counsel. “First and foremost, Crowley’s long-standing support for and compliance with the sulphur regulations has been demonstrated throughout the years in no small part because, it is the responsible thing to do for the environment. Second, Crowley supports the fair leveling of the ‘sulphur playing field’ for the benefit of all parties involved.”
“The threat of weak enforcement of sulphur regulations is escalating fast. Responsible industry is taking the initiative to mitigate this threat, serving the best interests of the environment and human health as well as creating a level playing field for business. By speaking with one, united voice we have the greatest chance to bring about change,” said Roger Strevens, Trident Alliance chairman, on the organization’s website.
In addition to enforcement of existing sulphur regulations, the Trident Alliance is also working to raise awareness of the issue, foster transparency around the operators’ sulfur compliance activities and develop initiatives to foster innovation in practicable enforcement technologies. Membership is currently comprised of around 30 companies, including Hapag-Lloyd, Maersk Line, Maersk Tankers, Scorpio, Stena and others. The Trident Alliance is also represented in forums such as the European Community Shipowners' Association's Sulphur Working Group and the World Shipping Council.
