What is the difference between IMO Tier III and Euro Stage V?

03/20/2023

Emissions regulations are a critical component of the shipping industry’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact. IMO tier III and EU stage V are two important standards that are designed to address harmful emissions from vessels.

When it comes to emissions regulations, there are two key standards to consider: IMO tier III and EU stage V. IMO Tier III regulations are international standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions from ships. These regulations apply to vessels operating in designated Emission Control Areas (ECAs) and are aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of maritime activities.

Stage V regulations are emission standards introduced by the European Union to reduce pollutants from non-road mobile machinery (NRMM), such as construction equipment and agricultural vehicles as well as inland waterway vessels . These regulations focus on significantly lowering emissions of particulate matter (PM), particulate number (PN) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) to improve air quality.

Looking specifically at the field of Emigreen’s activities, the main difference between them is that IMO tier III rules apply to sea-going vessels, while EU stage V emission regulations apply to aforementioned inland waterway vessels.