The world’s oceans are rich in biodiversity and play a vital role in sustaining life on Earth. However, increasing maritime traffic poses serious risks to ecologically and culturally important sea regions. To address this, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) designates Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSAs)—marine areas that are especially vulnerable to damage from international shipping.
The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) has issued a notice outlining obligations for RMI-flagged vessels navigating such areas, in accordance with international maritime law and IMO guidelines.
What are Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSAs)?
PSSAs are marine regions that hold significant ecological, socio-economic, or scientific value and are particularly at risk from maritime activities. These areas are granted special protections through actions taken by the IMO, in line with international law, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
When an area is designated as a PSSA, the IMO may also implement Associated Protective Measures (APMs) to manage and minimize risks. These APMs may include:
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Mandatory ships’ routing to control traffic flow
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Mandatory reporting systems to monitor vessel movement
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Areas to be avoided to protect sensitive ecosystems
Such measures are designed not to hinder international navigation rights but to ensure safety and environmental protection.
Examples of Designated PSSAs and Their Protective Measures
Several locations around the world have been officially designated as PSSAs due to their ecological importance and vulnerability. Each area has customized APMs based on local risks and conditions.
Some notable examples include:
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Great Barrier Reef (Australia): Mandatory ship reporting (REEFREP), pilotage systems, and areas to be avoided
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The Galapagos Archipelago (Ecuador): Mandatory reporting system (GALREP), recommended tracks, and areas to be avoided
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The Baltic Sea Area: Multiple protective measures such as traffic separation schemes, deep-water routes, MARPOL Special Area status, and emission control areas
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Florida Keys (USA): No anchoring zones and designated areas to be avoided
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Jomard Entrance (Papua New Guinea): Two-way routes and precautionary areas to protect coral reef ecosystems
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North-Western Mediterranean Sea: Voluntary speed reductions and safety measures to protect marine mammals
These efforts illustrate a global commitment to balancing maritime activity with marine conservation.
PSSAs represent a critical mechanism for preserving the health and integrity of our oceans. By identifying high-risk areas and enforcing protective measures, the IMO and its member states are taking proactive steps to mitigate the impact of shipping on vulnerable marine environments.
Compliance with these measures is not only a legal obligation for flagged vessels, such as those under the Republic of the Marshall Islands, but also a moral imperative for the global maritime community. Together, these efforts contribute to the long-term sustainability of our oceans for future generations.
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Source: SAFETY4SEA
