top of page

Upcoming Maritime Regulations: What to Expect on January 1, 2025

Briggs McCriddle

As the maritime industry evolves, regulations continue to play a pivotal role in shaping operational standards, enhancing safety, and promoting environmental sustainability. January 1, 2025, marks the implementation of several key regulations, introduced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the European Union (EU), and other global entities. These regulations are aimed at reducing emissions, improving safety protocols, and driving digitalization in maritime operations. Below is a detailed overview of the most critical regulatory changes taking effect on this date.


1. IMSBC Code Amendments (07-23)

The latest amendments to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code, adopted through MSC.539(107), will become mandatory.

• Key Changes:

• Mandatory declaration of bulk density by shippers, as required by SOLAS XII/10.

• Introduction of new cargo schedules and updates to existing ones.

• Enhanced safety measures for the carriage of specific cargoes prone to liquefaction.

These updates are designed to ensure safer handling and transport of bulk cargoes, addressing long-standing safety concerns.

2. MARPOL Annex I – New Special Areas

The Red Sea and Gulf of Aden will officially become Special Areas under MARPOL Annex I, subjecting vessels operating in these regions to stricter controls on oily waste discharge.

• Requirements:

• Ships must use oil filtering equipment ensuring oil content in discharged water does not exceed 15 parts per million.

• Discharges of oily mixtures from cargo spaces will be strictly prohibited.

This designation aims to protect sensitive marine ecosystems in these high-traffic areas.

3. MARPOL Annex VI – Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) Phase 3

From January 2025, EEDI Phase 3 will impose stricter energy efficiency standards on new ships over 400 gross tonnage.

• Requirements:

• A 30% reduction in energy consumption compared to baseline levels.

• Applies to contracts signed on or after January 1, 2025, and ships delivered on or after January 1, 2029.

This regulation promotes the adoption of cutting-edge technologies in ship design to achieve substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

4. STCW Convention Amendments – Electronic Certificates

Amendments to the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention will allow the issuance of electronic certificates for seafarers.

• Key Benefits:

• Streamlined certification processes.

• Reduced administrative burdens.

• Improved accessibility and verification of seafarer qualifications.

This change aligns with the broader digital transformation of the maritime industry.

5. EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) Expansion

The EU ETS will extend its coverage to include offshore ships above 400 gross tonnage and general cargo ships between 400 and 5,000 GT.

• Requirements:

• Ships must monitor and report CO₂ emissions.

• Operators will be required to purchase emissions allowances, increasing the financial incentive to reduce carbon footprints.

This expansion seeks to drive decarbonization by incorporating more vessel types into the EU’s carbon trading framework.

6. Ballast Water Management Convention (BWM) – Electronic Record Books

The Ballast Water Management Convention will mandate the use of electronic Ballast Water Record Books.

• Impact:

• Enhanced record-keeping efficiency.

• Simplified compliance monitoring by port state authorities.

This move is part of the industry’s ongoing efforts to improve operational transparency and accountability.

7. Hong Kong Convention on Ship Recycling

The Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships will finally enter into force.

• Objectives:

• Ensure ships are recycled safely and sustainably.

• Protect human health and the environment during ship recycling processes.

This milestone marks a significant step towards responsible ship recycling practices globally.

8. MARPOL Annex VI – Mediterranean Sea ECA

The Mediterranean Sea will be designated as an Emission Control Area (ECA) for sulfur oxides (SOx).

• Key Requirement:

• Vessels operating in the Mediterranean must use fuel with a sulfur content not exceeding 0.10% m/m.

This designation aims to improve air quality and protect public health in one of the world’s busiest maritime regions.

Preparing for Compliance

With these regulations on the horizon, stakeholders in the maritime industry must take proactive steps to ensure compliance:

1. Assess Operational Readiness:

• Conduct gap analyses to identify areas requiring updates or retrofits.

• Upgrade or replace non-compliant equipment.

2. Invest in Technology:

• Adopt digital solutions such as electronic record books and emissions monitoring systems.

• Incorporate energy-efficient technologies into newbuilds and retrofits.

3. Engage in Training:

• Ensure crews and shoreside staff are trained on new regulatory requirements and digital systems.

4. Leverage Incentives:

• Take advantage of EU grants and IMO funding programs to offset compliance costs.

Conclusion

The regulatory changes taking effect on January 1, 2025, represent a pivotal moment for the maritime industry. While compliance will require significant effort and investment, these measures are crucial for advancing safety, environmental protection, and operational efficiency. By staying ahead of these changes, maritime operators can ensure smooth operations and maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly sustainability-focused industry.

0 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page