Marine Engines Emission and Dispersion in Fuel Switching Operation: A Case Study for the Port of Naples

Abstract This study analyses the production and the dispersion of air pollutants produced by ship engines of great displacement during the approaching phase to the seaports. In agreement with the present environmental rules, several scenarios were examined, considering the possibility of fuel switch, from heavy fuel oil to marine gasoil. After characterizing the emissions during this fuel change-over, and taking into account the most frequent routes, we analyzed the specific case of the port of Naples. For this case-study we evaluated different scenarios of pollutants dispersion from ships arriving and departing, by using the Gaussian model ISC and considering in particular the effect on the coastal zone adjacent to the port. The results are represented graphically and provide valuable insights about the impact of marine traffic on air quality. Such information may be seen as useful tools for the improvement of maritime legislation on emissions, since emission of air pollutants from ships of large size is a key factor in air quality state in the surrounding areas to ports.