LAGOS – For years now, high sulphur levels in imported diesel and gasoline are causing severe air pollution in the city. This graphic journalism piece traces the data trail of the oil, from West Africa to European port terminals.
In Europe, strict fuel standards have been in place since 2009. Yet polluting and harmful fuels are still being produced and exported. West African countries form a major market for low-quality fuels with high sulphur content. Until recently, the ports of Amsterdam and Antwerp were important blending hubs. Since April 2023, the Netherlands has enforced stricter export standards, and since September 2024, so has Belgium. But the industry adapts, and the dirty oil finds its way through other ports within and outside Europe.
