Guidance around Marine Protection Rules Part 170

Maritime NZ recently consulted on guidance to support vessel owners, operators, and skippers in understanding the requirements of the Marine Protection Rules Part 170: Prevention of Pollution by Garbage from Ships.

Overview

This draft guide covers the Marine Protection Rules Part 170 (Part 170) and explains what vessel owners, operators, and skippers need to do to comply with the rule requirements.  The guidance does not contain any new rules – it is just a reminder of the current legislation and vessel owner/operator/skipper responsibilities for helping to prevent garbage pollution of the marine environment.

Part 170 implements the international garbage discharge and management requirements under MARPOL Annex V: Regulations for the Control of Pollution by Garbage from Ships (MARPOL Annex V). New Zealand signed up to MARPOL Annex V, which aims to reduce and eliminate the amount of garbage discharged from ships, in 1998.

Part 170 applies to all vessels (whether New Zealand or foreign flagged) and the requirements apply regardless of whether the vessel is used for commercial or recreational purposes. The specific requirements that apply to you will depend on your vessel type, operation, and location.

Once published the guidance will be available on the Maritime NZ Garbage disposal webpage under the Environmental requirements section. 

 

Consultation detail

The consultation ran from 8 October 2024 to 12 November 2024.  The consultation period is now closed and we can accept no further submissions.

 If you have any questions about this consultation you can contact Maritime New Zealand. 

Email: consultations@maritimenz.govt.nz

Thank you to those who provided feedback.