- Key upcoming regulations focus on stricter environmental standards, fuel specifications, and operational requirements for the commercial shipping industry.
- Major amendments include updates to MARPOL Annexes, ISO fuel standards, and the introduction of new emission control areas.
- These regulations aim to enhance sustainability, safety, and compliance within the maritime sector.
This summary provides a timeline and details of significant upcoming shipping regulations, emphasizing the environmental, operational, and safety improvements being mandated globally, reports Britannia P&I Club.
Environmental Standards
- MARPOL Annex VI Amendment (1 May 2024): Flashpoint confirmation is now required on Bunker Delivery Notes to ensure fuel safety compliance.
- Mediterranean Sea Emission Control Area (ECA) (1 May 2025): Limits on sulfur oxides and particulate matter emissions come into effect in the Mediterranean Sea, aligning with global environmental standards.
- MARPOL Annex I & V Special Areas (1 Jan 2025): The Red Sea and Gulf of Aden gain formal recognition as Special Areas for pollution prevention, highlighting their environmental sensitivity.
- FuelEU Maritime Regulation (1 Jan 2025): Monitoring of low-carbon fuel use begins, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in maritime transport.
- CARB Regulation on Ocean-Going Vessels (1 Jan 2025): Emission control requirements expand to include specific vessels in Los Angeles and Long Beach ports, pushing for cleaner air quality.
Fuel Specifications
- ISO 8217:2024 (30 May 2024): The latest revision of marine fuel specifications, with previous versions withdrawn to standardize global practices.
Safety and Operational Compliance
- MLC Amendment (23 Dec 2024): Changes include ensuring free potable water and appropriately sized protective equipment for crew welfare.
- IMSBC Code Amendment 07-23 (1 Jan 2025): Mandatory from 2025, this amendment enhances the safety and handling of solid bulk cargoes.
- International Ballast Water Management Convention Amendment (1 Feb 2025): A new ballast water record book format is mandated for better tracking and compliance.
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Source: Britannia P&I Club