Air pollution originating from cruise ships may increase susceptibility to respiratory illnesses, including common colds and Covid-19, a recent study from the University of Southampton suggests. The research indicates that particulate matter from these vessels can weaken cellular resistance to infection and promote inflammation, raising concerns for public health in port cities.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Southampton, identified cruise ship terminals at Southampton's port as a source of specific pollutants. Sampling sites across the port area, including a busy cruise terminal, showed elevated levels of trace elements like vanadium, nickel, and cobalt in air particles during the peak summer season, compared to quieter winter months. A control site five kilometres away generally recorded lower levels of these elements.
Professor Matthew Loxham, a senior author of the study and professor of respiratory biology and toxicology, highlighted the presence of a distinct air pollution 'signature' from cruise ships. He explained that the ultrafine particles in these emissions can penetrate deeper into the lungs and potentially enter the bloodstream. The study found that exposing cells to these particles, and specifically vanadium, not only caused inflammation but also facilitated the replication of viruses.
Associated British Ports (ABP), the operator of Southampton’s port, has raised concerns regarding the methodologies employed in the study and the strength of the inferences drawn from its findings. An ABP spokesperson underscored the port's commitment to improving air quality, citing measures such as being the first UK port to introduce large-scale shore power connections, enabling vessels to switch off engines while berthed, thereby achieving zero emissions.
ABP also stated that the port’s real-time air quality monitoring demonstrates that emissions like nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter remain well within National Air Quality Objective annual limits. The organisation further emphasised the cruise sector's significant economic contribution, estimated at around £1 billion annually to Southampton and the wider region, and reiterated its ongoing initiatives to drive further air quality improvements while maintaining the port's vital economic role.
The findings, which are expected to be peer-reviewed, add to the growing discussion on the need for stricter regulation and increased monitoring of ship emissions and their health impacts. A spokesperson for the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) affirmed the industry's commitment to responsible operations and continued investment in environmental technologies, with a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.