The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response (PPR 12) has finalized the draft 2025 Action Plan to Address Marine Plastic Litter from Ships, aiming for approval at the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83) meeting from April 7 to 11, 2025.
The meeting, held from January 27 to 31, 2025, at IMO Headquarters in London, was chaired by Dr. Anita Mäkinen of Finland. The revised Action Plan builds upon the initial 2018 plan, incorporating completed actions and updated strategies.
Key Goals of the 2025 Action Plan
The plan sets completion targets by 2030, focusing on:
Reducing marine plastic litter from fishing vessels
Minimizing plastic pollution from shipping activities
Enhancing public awareness, education, and seafarer training
Improving port reception facilities and waste treatment
Strengthening international cooperation
Gaining a better understanding of how ships contribute to plastic litter
Regulating Plastic Pellet Transport
One of the notable actions in the plan is the development of mandatory measures to address environmental risks from plastic pellets transported in freight containers by sea. The Sub-Committee created a table outlining potential legal amendments, evaluating their advantages, limitations, and impacts.
Other Key Outcomes from PPR 12
Draft Guidance on In-Water Cleaning of Ships’ Biofouling – Aims to improve environmental safety.
Draft 2025 Guidelines on Selective Catalytic Reduction Systems – Supports compliance with NOx emission controls.
Draft Interim Guidance on Biofuel Blends and MARPOL Annex I Cargoes – Addresses safe transport via conventional bunker ships.
The 2025 Action Plan reinforces IMO’s commitment to reducing marine pollution and enhancing sustainability in global shipping. Approval by MEPC 83 will mark a significant step toward cleaner oceans.
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Source: IMO
