[mikeash]

Particulates from cargo ships aren't a major concern for human health. They're not long-lived in the atmosphere, so when emitted over the open ocean, they're removed from the air long before they reach populated areas.

[lostlogin]

Presumably into the sea. Is that a problem or is it a non event?

[mikeash]

Not sure! It's way, way better than emitting it in a place where millions of people will breathe it, but I'm sure it's not harmless.