Exhaust gas purification

Catalytic converter technology (SCR – Selective Catalytic Reduction) is already widespread in the automotive industry, where it is used successfully to reduce nitrogen oxides in exhaust gases. The catalytic converters installed by TUI Cruises in both fleets reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by 75 percent and are used worldwide in all port, coastal and sensitive areas, regardless of regulatory requirements. Our consistent use of this technology across both fleets makes TUI Cruises a pioneer in this area.

The exhaust gas purification system (AEP = Advanced Emission Purification System) fitted to the Mein Schiff ® fleet (Mein Schiff 1 to Mein Schiff 6) combines a desulphurization system (hybrid scrubber) with catalytic converters (SCR = Selective Catalytic Reduction).

The scrubber removes sulphur and particles from the exhaust gases. The process results in wastewater that is cleaned in a subsequent step; the filtered residues are collected and professionally disposed of ashore. The system´s distinguishing feature is that it can be operated in open and closed mode, depending on the cruising area – hence the name `hybrid scrubber´. In closed mode, the wastewater is cleaned with freshwater, collected on board and then correctly disposed of ashore. Closed-loop operation therefore has no impact on the marine environment.

The hybrid scrubber reduces harmful sulphur emissions by up to 99 percent and particulate emissions by up to 60 percent. We also use this system permanently worldwide beyond Emission Control Areas (ECAs), where the legal emissions limit is 0.1 percent sulphur content in exhaust gas. This permanently reduces the sulphur content to 0.1 percent, whereas the permitted global limit is 0.5 percent outside of ECAs.

Since launching its business activities, through its numerous voluntary commitments TUI Cruises has pursued environmental sustainability targets far beyond those required by law. The company also takes this approach regarding exhaust gas purification. Thanks to its permanent worldwide application of scrubber technology on Mein Schiff 1-6, the exhaust-gas sulphur content is reduced to 0.1 percent.

In addition, the vessels with hybrid scrubbers voluntarily apply closed-loop operation in the Baltic Sea and all port and coastal regions, i.e. no AWP wash water is discharged there, but is instead disposed of exclusively ashore.