Blockchain and IoT Enable Real-Time Ship Emissions Monitoring to Enhance MARPOL Enforcement
A recent research paper by Quigley, Rahouti, and Weiss of Fordham University proposes a secure, blockchain‑assisted framework that aims to revolutionize environmental compliance monitoring in the maritime sector. By combining shipboard IoT sensors with smart contracts on the scalable Polygon blockchain, the system captures sulfur emission data continuously, logs it immutably, and automatically compares values against MARPOL thresholds.
This breakthrough matters because current compliance relies mainly on sporadic port inspections and paper records, both of which are prone to manipulation and infrequent verification. The proposed framework addresses these challenges by ensuring real‑time transparency and integrity of emissions data. Smart contracts immediately alert regulatory authorities when emissions exceed acceptable limits, enabling dynamic enforcement and minimizing delayed detection of violations.
In their laboratory proof‑of‑concept, the researchers focused on sulfur pollutants, demonstrating that the system reliably captures and logs single‑source emissions data securely on the blockchain. The use of Polygon, a layer‑2 network on Ethereum, ensures scalability and cost‑efficiency, making it feasible for widespread deployment across international fleets.
Industry efforts in IoT and blockchain for maritime emissions monitoring are already underway. Consortia such as Maritime Blockchain Labs, supported by partners including Lloyd’s Register Foundation, have conducted pilots using blockchain to secure marine fuel and emissions data, working with ports like Singapore, Rotterdam, and Los Angeles. These initiatives, along with research in sensor‑driven marine pollution control, suggest growing momentum toward practical adoption.
Challenges remain in moving from lab-based proofs to full-scale implementation. The system must expand its monitoring capabilities to include CO₂, NOₓ, and particulate emissions. It must also overcome hurdles related to data connectivity at sea, aligning blockchain data with legal and regulatory frameworks, and integrating with existing maritime operations .
This study offers a compelling foundation for environmental monitoring in shipping—demonstrating how immutable blockchain logs and automated smart contracts can reinforce global MARPOL regulations. As the maritime sector pursues decarbonization and digital transformation, real-time emissions transparency could become standard practice, ushering in a new era of clean‑ocean accountability.
This research is an essential reference for maritime regulators, ship‑operations managers, environmental compliance officers, and technology providers. It lays groundwork for blog features, infographics, expert discussions, and technology demonstrations showcasing how IoT and blockchain can enhance regulatory enforcement and sustain ocean health.
