Monday, May 04, 2009
Tanker spills continue downward trend
Monday, 04 May 2009
Tanker spills followed a continuing downward trend during 2008, according to latest tanker spill statistics by The International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited (ITOPF). "In 2008, there were eight incidents resulting in spills of seven tonnes and above," said ITOPF. "Of these, just one measured over 700 tonnes, which is three less than 2007 and the lowest year on record. Moreover, the oil spilt during this one incident accounts for over 70% of the total spill volume from tankers for 2008," it added.
In the 2009/2010 ITOPF Handbook, the not-for-profit organisation says some 35% of spills in the category 7-700 tonnes occurred during routine operations, most especially loading or discharging (28%).
"Accidents were the main cause of large spills (>700 tonnes), with groundings and collisions accounting for 63% of the total during the period 1974-2008. Other significant causes included hull failures and fire/explosion," ITOPF added.
ITOPF's Dr Karen Purnell told Sustainable Shipping that with climate change now high on the agenda and the continued focus on alternative fuels, there is an increasing demand to understand its effects on the environment.
"There is a general lack of experience when it comes to spills from distillate fuels and biofuels, and we are seeing increased interest from our members to appreciate the consequences of a spill, particularly when operating in ice-covered environments," Purnell noted.
Purnell will be replacing Dr. Tosh Miller as managing director at ITOPF effective May 2009.
Source: Tankerworld
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