SCRUBBER COMPLIANCE FOR 2025

Staying Compliant with IMO Emission Regulations in 2025

Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (Scrubbers) & Emissions Compliance for Shipowners

In today’s regulatory environment, compliance with global emissions standards is no longer optional — it’s essential. Following the IMO 2020 sulfur cap, which limits sulfur content in marine fuel to 0.50% m/m, shipowners must ensure continuous compliance through the use of low-sulfur fuel oils (LSFO) or Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (EGCS), commonly known as scrubbers.

While initial enforcement began in 2020, IMO, Flag States, and Port State Control (PSC) authorities have continued to increase oversight, focusing on both the operational efficiency and documentation of scrubber systems. Non-compliance may lead to detention, fines, or even PSC bans.

Why Scrubber Installation Still Matters in 2025

Despite the rise in compliant fuels, scrubbers remain a cost-effective, long-term solution for vessels operating in Emission Control Areas (ECAs) and global routes, especially where high-sulfur fuel oil (HSFO) is still available at favorable prices.

Current regulatory requirements include:

Full compliance with MARPOL Annex VI – Regulation 14 and 4
Ongoing monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting of emissions performance
Approval and certification of EGCS by a recognized Classification Society
Compliance with local restrictions, including some ports and countries that ban the use of open-loop scrubbers
Continuous performance verification through onboard sensors and emissions monitoring systems

Strategic Planning Is Key

If you’re considering EGCS retrofit, it’s essential to plan ahead. Factors such as dry dock availability, engineering lead times, and increased enforcement actions make early action more critical than ever. Retrofit projects are still viable in 2025, but competition for shipyard capacity and classification approval continues to rise.

MBM Consultancy: Your Technical Partner for Scrubber Compliance

MBM Consultancy provides end-to-end support for scrubber projects, from feasibility to final commissioning. Our expertise ensures your system meets both regulatory and operational demands.

Our EGCS Services Include:

Initial Vessel Survey & Condition Inspection
3D Laser Scanning for Accurate Design Integration
Feasibility Studies & Detailed Engineering Design
Complete Project Management from Concept to Installation
Isometric & Detailed Drawings (vents, ducts, piping, materials list)
Class-Approved Drawings & Documentation
Structural Modifications & As-Built Drawing Revisions
Electrical & Piping Diagrams Updated to Reflect Installations
Technical Specifications for Installation and Modification Works

MBM works in close collaboration with all major Classification Societies, maintaining full confidentiality and a continuous flow of communication to ensure smooth project approval.

Ready to Retrofit or Review Your Compliance Strategy?

Whether you’re starting a new retrofit project or reviewing the performance of an existing scrubber system, MBM Consultancy is here to support every phase. Contact us today to discuss your vessel and compliance objectives.

• Retrofit Specifications