Arctic Breach: Irish Cargo Ship Fined NOK 1 Million for HFO Violation

In Norway, Safety4Sea reports the Norwegian authorities have fined the Irish cargo ship “Arklow Wind” NOK 1,000,000 for carrying heavy fuel oil (HFO) in the Arctic, violating regulations that have been in effect since January 2022. Discovered during its visit to Svalbard on June 6, 2024, the breach also resulted in a NOK 30,000 fine for the ship’s captain.

This case marks the first application of penalties under Section 82a of the Svalbard Environment Act, aimed at protecting the fragile Arctic ecosystem from the harmful effects of HFO, which is notorious for its environmental impact and difficulty in cleanup. The shipping company has contested the fines and posted a guarantee to continue operating pending a court hearing scheduled for October.

The prohibition on HFO in Svalbard reflects broader efforts to safeguard Arctic waters from ecological harm. Starting July 1, 2024, the MARPOL convention’s Regulation 43A will ban the use and carriage of heavy fuel oils in Arctic waters, reinforcing the protection of these sensitive environments.

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