The Resolution for consideration at the SGM on 19th January 2010 (ref
This is an update to the Association's circular numbered 12/09, issued in November 2009, regarding new Regulations on the Prevention and Control of Marine Pollution from Ships ("the Regulations") promulgated by the People's Republic of China State Council on 9th September 2009 and due to take effect from 1st March 2010.
EU states will bring the provisions of the Insurance Directive into law by 1st January 2012 at the latest. The Insurance Directive requires all ships greater than 300 gt to evidence insurance for maritime claims subject to LLMC 96 . Imminent changes to certificates of entry to comply with the Insurance Directive include incorporation of the registered shipowner's name and principal place of business
China's first comprehensive system of marine pollution regulations take effect from 1st March 2010. The Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) is the enforcing agency for the Regulations supervising and administering prevention and control of marine pollution by ship operations. Before entering Chinese ports, ships carrying polluting hazardous cargo and all other ships over 10,000 gross tons must pre-contract with approved pollution response companies. Compulsory insurance is required to meet Chinese Maritime Code or 1992 CLC and Bunkers Convention where applicable.
Over 20 States in the EU have now brought the European Directive on Environmental Liability (ELD) into law. Under the ELD shipowners are strictly liable for the costs of preventative and remedial actions for the environmental damage arising from the transport of dangerous or 'polluting' goods, if such costs are outside the scope of application of a relevant liabilty convention. Differing liability and compensation regimes of the ELD and relevant international conventions are explained. The three levels of remediation required under the ELD are also explained.
This circular explains the impact of the 3rd EU Maritime Safety Package on Members whose ships enter EU waters, including: A requirement to carry P&I certificates on board which may be enforced by Port State Control. The extension of the 2002 Protocol to the Athens Convention to domestic sea-going and inland waterways voyages. The establishment of an independent authority in individual EU states to respond to ships in distress with powers to board ships and direct them to designated places of refuge.
The additional premium system for tankers carrying persistent oil to or from the United States will continue for the 2009 policy year. Rates have been reduced by 10 per cent.
We would like to draw your attention to the recent developments regarding the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Vessel General Permit (VGP) requirements.