Scientists Warn About Cruise-Ship Emissions After Finding Vanadium and Nickel

Large cruise ships may be a bigger burden on air quality in ports than previously thought. Scientists from Southampton found ultrafine particles containing vanadium and nickel in the ships’ emissions.

In laboratory tests, the particles promoted inflammation in lung cells and weakened the cells’ defenses against viruses. The findings have prompted warnings about the potential impact of cruise-ship emissions on port air.