A pioneer in sustainable development for many years, La Méridionale is the 1st shipowner in the world to equip one of its vessels (the Piana) with a particle filter.
An innovative solution that significantly reduces emissions of sulfur oxides (Sox) and over 99.9% of fine and ultrafine particles.
Towards more eco-friendly sea transportation
Since January 1, 2020, MARPOL regulations has imposed a sulfur content limit in the Mediterranean.
Sulfur oxide emissions must not exceed 0.5%. To achieve this, the majority of the ferries that link Corsica to the mainland are equipped with a water-based exhaust gas cleaning systems called scrubber, to capture toxic particles.
While some use "closed" circuits to store contaminated water and waste on board for onshore treatment, other less virtuous discharge polluted water into the Mediterranean.
Development of the first particle filter
After researching and evaluating technologies used in the land-based waste treatment industry, our engineers selected a proven solution developed by two world-renowned players, Solvay and Andritz, to "marinize" their dry exhaust gas desulfurization technologies: the particle filter was created!
Proven technology to reduce sulfur oxides on our ferry to Ajaccio
The operating principle of the particle filter installed on the Piana is as follows:
- Sodium bicarbonate powder (a neutral component) is injected at the engine source and acts chemically on the sulfur and sulfur oxides present in the exhaust gases to destroy them.
- Fine and ultra-fine particles, meanwhile, are captured by the particle filter.
- At the end of these two phases, the bicarbonate residue collected on board is sent for treatment.
RESULTS
The Piana meets all current and future regulatory requirements for pollutant emissions, including heavy metals :
- 99% of sulfur oxides captured
- 99.9% of fine and ultrafine particles removed
This innovation is part of La Méridionale's approach to sustainable development and environmental protection.
The shipping company has implemented concrete solutions on-board its ships to Corsica, such as the Cetacean Tracking System (REPCET) or its electrical shore-to-ship power (CENAQ) to reduce the impact of its activity.
This commitment to preserving the Mediterranean has been rewarded by:
- the Blue Charter Trophy in 2013 and 2018
- the Sustainable Tourism Prize in 2018.
In September 2021 at the 5th edition of the French "Port du futur" Trophy organized by Cerema and its partners, La Méridionale won the "Equipment Award" in recognition of the installation of this innovative particle filter on the Piana.
Stay in touch
Subscribe to our newsletter
You'll be the first to keep up with our latest mediterranean news and exclusive offers
Our destinations
Porto-Vecchio
Tangier
Marseille
