With just 85 days until the IMO 2020 fuel rules come into force, an influential figure has issued a hard-hitting warning of the reputational risks for the industry by widespread use of so-called open loop exhaust gas scrubbers.

Morten Arntzen, a veteran ship financier and executive, said the issue risked provoking attacks by environmental campaigners from Greenpeace and Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg, who has inspired millions to protest on green issues worldwide.