The Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise (AECO) announced that its members have agreed on a self-imposed ban on the use and carriage of heavy fuel oil (HFO) n the Arctic.

The current practice among the association’s members is to refrain from using HFO when sailing in the Arctic. This practice has now been formalized as a mandatory guideline, according to a statement.

AECO was an early signatory of the Arctic Commitment which calls for a phase-out of polluting heavy fuel oil (HFO) from Arctic shipping.

“AECO represents the great majority of operators that offer expedition cruising in the Arctic. By formalizing this ban, the expedition cruise industry is sending a message to decision-makers that it is time to act to protect the Arctic from the risk of HFO pollution,” said Executive Director Frigg Jørgensen.