In early April, if I am not mistaken, the International Maritime Organisation adopted a ban on the use and carriage of heavy fuel oil for ships sailing in Antarctica. This decision was taken in an effort to protect the environment in the event of an oil spill or leak resulting from a ship’s collision with an iceberg. Light marine gas oil, which has not been banned, is less harmful than heavier fuels and dissipates quickly in water, lowering the risk of significant environmental damage.

The ban, which takes effect from 1 August 2011, will have the greatest impact on large cruise ships, such as those operated by Holland America, Princess and Celebrity. These ships offer cruise-only trips to Antarctica (passengers are not allowed to disembark on the continent; one reason might be to lessen the transfer of possible contaminants such as bacteria from warmer climates) and use heavy fuel oil. Switching to light marine gas oil is possible but would be significantly more expensive. Expedition-style ships such as Silversea’s Prince Albert II almost always uses light marine gas oil and will not be greatly affected by the ban.

In reviewing this piece of news, one can conclude that while no icebergs patrol the Malta-Sicily strait, this is a very densely navigated stretch of sea and, compared to Antarctica, the Maltese Islands are mere dots and a good sized heavy oil leak would surely be more widespread and damaging for us than for Antarctica, which is unpopulated save for research outposts.

G. Bonett

MARSALFORN