The IMO’s Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response convened its 13th session from February 9 to 13, 2026, in London, focusing on environmental protection measures in maritime operations. Key outcomes include the groundwork for a legally binding framework on biofouling management to combat invasive aquatic species, with recommendations for a standalone instrument to be finalized by MEPC 84. A correspondence group was established to outline objectives and guidelines for this initiative.
Additionally, the Sub-Committee approved a draft 2026 Strategy and Action Plan to address marine plastic litter from ships, aiming for zero plastic waste discharges by 2030. This updated strategy emphasizes public awareness, seafarer training, and international cooperation to mitigate shipping’s contribution to ocean pollution.
The Sub-Committee also recommended developing a new code for the maritime transport of plastic pellets, promoting fishing gear marking systems, and finalizing amendments to the NOx Technical Code to address emissions from low- or zero-carbon fuels. Discussions on black carbon emissions and the impact of polar fuels continued, alongside ongoing work on the management of exhaust gas cleaning systems and sewage treatment regulations under MARPOL.
Further amendments were proposed for MARPOL Annex I and IV, focusing on the disposal of oily bilge water and sewage management, respectively. These efforts aim to enhance compliance and reduce marine pollution from shipping activities.
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