All ships

Amendments to MARPOL Annex V, Regulation 6, on the establishment of the Red Sea as Special Areas

The Red Sea area was recognized as a Special Area under Annex V (regulation 1.14.4) of MARPOL. However, for the ‘Special Area’ status to be effective, adequate reception facilities had to be provided in the relevant ports of the coastal State Parties.
At MEPC-80, the special area status was confirmed based on information about the necessary reception facilities for MARPOL Annex V wastes and residues at all ports and terminals in the region.
Members with ships transiting through the Red Sea area are advised that the discharge of garbage into the sea shall only be permitted while the ship is enroute and in accordance with Regulation 6 (Discharge of garbage within special areas) of MARPOL Annex V.