In accordance with the international MARPOL Annex VI regulations, in the absence of an exhaust gas cleaning system, what is the maximum allowable sulphur content for a fuel to be burned while the ship is operating in an emissions control area?

Correct Answer: Option A — 1.5%

MARPOL Annex VI, Regulation 14, mandates stricter sulphur limits within designated Emission Control Areas (ECAs). Under the original regulatory structure referenced in this question, the maximum allowable sulphur content for fuel burned within an ECA, without utilizing approved exhaust gas cleaning systems, was strictly limited to 1.5% by weight.