Shredding of waste on board ships in the context of the MARPOL 73/78 Annex V Directive

12 September 2024

Waste management on board ships is a crucial aspect of maritime safety and environmental protection.

Within the framework of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78), Annex V focuses specifically on the prevention of pollution by garbage generated by ships. This annex establishes standards and guidelines for managing solid waste and specifies the types of waste that can be discharged at sea and those that must be retained on board for proper disposal on land.

Below are some key considerations for waste management on board ships according to the MARPOL 73/78 Annex V Directive:

- Classification of waste: Annex V categorizes waste into several types, including plastics, food waste, paper, metal, glass, and special waste such as ash and cargo residues. Each type of waste has specific management and disposal requirements that must be clearly understood by the crew.

- Mandatory waste record keeping: ships with a gross tonnage exceeding 400 tons are required to maintain a waste record book that documents the quantity and type of waste generated, retained, and disposed of. The record book must be updated regularly and kept on board for a minimum of two years.

- Onboard waste management systems: It is essential for ships to have an approved solid waste management plan that includes detailed procedures for the collection, separation, treatment, storage, and disposal of waste. Furthermore, adequate containers and equipment must be available to manage waste in compliance with international standards.

- Crew training: crew training is a key element in proper waste management. Crew members must be trained on MARPOL protocols and specific procedures for managing waste on board, including the use of waste treatment equipment.

- Innovation and technology: the adoption of innovative technologies can help improve waste management on board ships. Advanced waste treatment systems, such as onboard incinerators and shredding and compacting machines, can reduce the volume of waste and minimize environmental impact.

- Inspections and compliance: port authorities and international organizations conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with the provisions of MARPOL 73/78 Annex V. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, operational delays, and reputational damage.

- International collaboration and capacity building: Given the global nature of maritime transport, collaboration among member states, international organizations, and industry operators is essential to build capacity and share best practices in waste management on board ships.

The Smallest two-shaft shredder available in the SatrindTech catalogue

Ideal as a waste shredding solution for ships, the S3 series shredders, equipped with a 3kW electric motor, can be utilized in the maritime sector since the S3/3 model has obtained the MARPOL compliance certification.

These shredders are equipped with a material selection grid with hole diameters designed to comply with the requirements of the MARPOL Directive, according to which the discharge of waste into the sea is prohibited, except as regulated within and outside special areas, particularly in accordance with the size of ground food waste.

Conclusions

Waste management on board ships, according to MARPOL Annex V, requires an integrated approach that combines regulatory compliance, continuous training, the adoption of advanced technologies, and strong international collaboration. This approach not only enhances the sustainability of maritime operations but also significantly contributes to the protection of the global marine environment.

Our sales team is available to provide you with further information, introduce you to our wide range of industrial shredders, and support you in addressing any waste shredding challenges you may encounter.