Marine plastic litter has emerged as a pressing environmental challenge for vessel operators worldwide. Its roots lie in escalating pollution from ships, fishing activities, and the broader influx of plastic waste into the oceans. This issue has significant ecological and economic repercussions, prompting global efforts spearheaded by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The Role of IMO and SDG 14
The IMO has taken the lead in addressing marine plastic litter, aligning its actions with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14): Life Below Water. Adopted in 2015 as part of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, SDG 14 focuses on mitigating plastic pollution and safeguarding marine ecosystems.
Discussions on marine plastic litter began at the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), initiated by Iceland, Norway, the Marshall Islands, Palau, and Vanuatu. These nations highlighted the problem’s direct impact on the shipping sector, including operational disruptions and reputational risks (MEPC 72/15).
Evolution of the Marine Plastic Litter Agenda
The agenda has since gained momentum, with nations like France and Germany leading efforts to develop cleanup guidelines for plastic pellet spills and amend Marpol Annex III. China has also played a pivotal role, implementing voluntary measures to improve plastic pellet transport and stowage under MEPC.1/Circ.909. China’s submission emphasized the need for collaboration among producers, carriers, and regulators to minimize environmental risks (PPR 12/11-4).
Regulatory Framework and Voluntary Measures
Currently, the IMO’s regulatory framework on marine plastic litter is grounded in Marpol Annex V, which prohibits the discharge of plastic waste from ships and mandates the reporting of lost fishing gear. Recent discussions have proposed a potential new chapter in Marpol Annex III to address plastic pellets more comprehensively.
Voluntary measures such as MEPC.1/Circ.909 provide interim guidance for safe transport and packaging of plastic pellets. These measures are critical for preventing spills, ensuring secure stowage, and mitigating liability for shipowners and operators. Non-compliance can result in severe financial penalties, cleanup liabilities, and reputational damage.
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite progress, several challenges persist:
- Data Gaps: Inconsistent national reporting frameworks hinder comprehensive assessments. As Australia noted, harmonized data collection is essential for addressing marine plastic litter effectively (PPR 12/11).
- Mandatory vs. Voluntary Measures: While voluntary instruments have shown early success, transitioning to mandatory regulations requires industry consensus and sufficient adaptation time (PPR 12/11-4).
Emerging issues, such as microplastics from anti-fouling paints, further complicate the regulatory landscape.
Next Steps at IMO
The IMO will continue its work on marine plastic litter at MEPC 83, scheduled for April 2025. Discussions will include follow-ups from the Action Plan to Address Marine Plastic Litter from Ships, alongside broader environmental priorities like greenhouse gas reductions and energy efficiency of ships.
Call for Global Collaboration
The path forward demands collaboration among governments, industry stakeholders, and non-governmental organizations. Encouraging the adoption of voluntary measures, fostering international cooperation, and advancing practical, enforceable regulations will be crucial.
The IMO’s evolving action plan reflects a balanced approach, aiming to safeguard marine ecosystems while addressing the operational realities of maritime industries. For shipowners and operators, proactive compliance and engagement in shaping future regulations are essential steps toward sustainable maritime operations.
