Europe’s Efforts to Combat Plastic Pellet Pollution
Europe is taking significant steps to address the pressing issue of plastic pellet pollution by implementing stringent regulations that specifically target ocean-going vessels. This move comes as maritime transport accounts for approximately 38 percent of all pellets transported within the European Union (EU), leading to a high prevalence of pollution by seagoing vessels.
The European Council has identified plastic pellet losses to the environment as the third largest source of unintentional microplastic releases, with an estimated 50,000 to 180,000 tonnes of pellets being accidentally released into the environment each year. These releases primarily occur during loading or unloading operations, as well as due to leaky containers, posing significant risks to marine life, human health, and the environment.
Studies have revealed that pellets make up around 70 percent of the plastic consumed by seabirds, with small plastic particles found in the stomachs of numerous seabird species worldwide. Furthermore, plastic pellets are recognized as the second largest direct source of microplastic marine pollution by weight, with billions of pellets entering the ocean annually through various means.
To combat this escalating hazard, the EU is introducing tougher regulations aimed at preventing and reducing the unintentional release of plastic pellets during production, transport, and processing. It is estimated that these regulations could potentially decrease plastic losses to the environment by up to 74 percent.
Recent Incidents and Consequences
Recent high-profile cases, such as the loss of containers from the Maersk-chartered containership Toconao off the coast of Spain, have underscored the urgency of addressing plastic pellet pollution. The spillage of white plastic pellets onto Spanish beaches following the incident sparked both environmental and political concerns. Similarly, plastic pellets, also known as nurdles, contributed significantly to pollution when the X-Press Pearl ship burned and sank off Sri Lanka in 2021.
Regulatory Measures for Sea-Going Vessels
The new regulations introduce strict obligations for sea-going vessels to combat plastic pellet pollution. These requirements mandate that carriers, both EU and non-EU, ensure that pellets are securely packed in robust packaging to prevent any loss during transport. Additionally, carriers must provide relevant authorities with information on containers containing pellets and ensure that their staff receive adequate training.
Operators and masters of sea-going vessels are also tasked with stowing containers containing plastic pellets under deck whenever feasible or in sheltered areas on exposed decks. Proper securing of these containers is essential to minimize environmental hazards without compromising safety standards.
The regulations further outline measures for prevention, containment, and clean-up, as well as the necessary equipment that carriers must have on board when transporting pellets. Once these regulations are enacted, the maritime industry will have a one-year grace period to comply with the new requirements.