Scrubber systems, also known as exhaust gas cleaning systems (EGCS), are equipment installed on board marine vessels to remove sulfur oxides, particulate matter and regulate nitrogen oxides emissions from the engine exhaust gas. Scrubber systems use seawater or caustic chemical solutions like sodium hydroxide to remove sulfur and particulate matter from the exhaust gas. Different types of scrubber systems used in marine vessels include wet scrubbers, dry scrubbers and hybrid scrubbers. Wet scrubbers use sea water or alkaline solution to remove sulfur from the flue gas stream. Many large ships opt for scrubber solutions as it allows them to continue burning high-sulfur fuel oil and comply with regulations on sulfur emissions.
The global scrubber system market is estimated to be valued at US$ 1.93 Mn in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.2% over the forecast period 2023 to 2031, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Market Dynamics
Stringent environmental regulations on marine emissions pave way for growth of scrubber system market. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a global sulfur cap of 0.5% m/m (mass/mass) on marine fuel from January 2020 onwards under MARPOL Annex VI regulations. To comply with the new regulations and continue using high-sulfur fuel, many ship owners are opting for scrubber systems. Furthermore, tax incentives and subsidies offered by governments of certain countries for installation of scrubbers is also boosting adoption. However, operational challenges associated with scrubber systems and lack of port reception facilities could pose challenges to market growth.
Segment Analysis
The global scrubber system market is dominated by the wet scrubber sub-segment. Wet scrubbers utilize a liquid medium like water to absorb particulates and neutralize gas components from flue gases. These systems offer more reliable and effective removal of acid gases, particulates, and hazardous air pollutants when compared to dry scrubbers. Their higher removal efficiencies and ability to work efficiently across diverse gas streams have made them a preferred choice for industries.
PEST Analysis
Political: Stringent air pollution norms by environmental agencies in developed nations are driving the adoption of scrubber systems. Various regulations like European Union’s Industrial Emissions Directive are promoting investments in pollution abatement technologies.
Economic: Lower operational costs through increased energy efficiency and cost savings on wastewater treatment are encouraging more industries to install scrubber systems. The payback period is attractive given the large volumes of flue gases handled by plants.
Social: Growing public awareness about health hazards of air pollution is raising pressure on industries and utilities to reduce their emissions. Scrubber systems help enhance corporate social responsibility credentials and build goodwill in local communities.
Technological: Advancements in materials, controls and system design have improved the performance of scrubbers. Real-time monitoring and Internet of Things integration allow remote management and predictive maintenance of these systems.
Key Takeaways
The Global Scrubber System Market Growth is expected to witness high growth over the forecast period of 2023 to 2031 driven by stringent emission norms. The global scrubber system market is estimated to be valued at US$ 1.93 Mn in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.2% over the forecast period 2023 to 2031.
The regional analysis comprises North America dominating currently due to presence of key players and early adoption of pollution control technologies. Europe is also an important regional market supported by the Industrial Emissions Directive mandates.
Key players operating in the scrubber system market are Nike Inc., Adidas AG, Bata Limited, Puma SE, Columbia Sportswear Company, The Dow Chemical Company, Huntsman Corporation, and BASF SE. Nike leads due to its wide portfolio and strong distribution network. Adidas is expanding aggressively in developing nations. Dow Chemical and BASF are major suppliers of chemicals used in wet scrubber systems.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it