Omar Elwakil Assignment (Environmental)
Omar Elwakil Assignment (Environmental)
Guide words: wastes, port operation, oil spill, garbage, food wastes, sewage,
dangerous goods, fouling formation& antifoulings.
WASTE MANAGEMENT IN MARITIME INDUSTRY
The maritime sector plays a vital role in the world economy, but as it expands, there comes
an increased risk of environmental pollution. Hazardous and non-hazardous waste produced
by the maritime sector can have catastrophic consequences for the environment, human
health, and marine ecosystems. To reduce the industry's negative environmental effects,
waste management must be done effectively.
Types of Waste Generated in Maritime Industry:
The transportation of goods via trucks, ships, trains, and cargo handling equipment, along
with stationary sources like power plants, refineries, oil and gas storage facilities, and the
storage of open coal piles close to port facilities, can all introduce a variety of air pollutants
that could have a detrimental effect on the health of the communities’ surrounding ports.
Exposure to air pollution linked to diesel engine emissions can lead to serious health issues,
particularly for children, the elderly, outdoor workers, and other vulnerable populations.
These issues include premature mortality, an increased risk of heart and lung disease hospital
admissions, elevated respiratory symptoms, and an increased risk of cancer.
Water pollution
Water quality in residential areas can be significantly impacted by port operations. Pollutants
carried by runoff from impermeable surfaces may make it unsafe for people to enjoy the local
lakes, bays, and streams or to consume fish and shellfish that come from them. Community
members may occasionally depend on fishing as their primary source of sustenance.
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Light and noise pollution
Health impacts of light and noise pollution from port operations can include hearing
impairment, high blood pressure and sleep deprivation.
oil spills
Anywhere that oil is extracted, transported, or used, there is a risk of oil leaks. expertise may
be called upon in the event of an oil spill in the ocean, the Great Lakes, on land, or in rivers
that feed into these coastal waterways
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chemical properties such as wax content, amount of oil spilled,
weather and sea state conditions, and location (whether oil stays
at sea or is stranded).
Factors affecting the fate of spilled oil are:
1. Spreading 2. Evaporation 3. Dispersion 4. Dissolution and 5.
Emulsification
These processes dominate in the first few days to weeks of a
spill, and except dissolution, these processes may dramatically
change the nature of the oil. In addition, a number of longer
term processes such as: Biodegradation, photo and auto
oxidation and Sedimentation.
1) In-situ burning
Burning of oil can actually remove up to 98% of an oil spill.
The spill must be a minimum of three millimeters thick and it
must be relatively fresh for this method to work. There has been
some success with this technique in Canada. The burning of oil
during the Gulf War was found not as large a problem as first
thought because the amount of pollution in the atmosphere did
not reach the expected high levels. Field-testing is needed to
check the feasibility of this technology.
B. Mechanical
We primarily use mechanical methods to clean-up oil spills.
Listed here are the three categories of mechanical tools used to
contain and recovery spilled oil.
1) Booms
It is easier to clean-up oil if it is all in one spot, so equipment
called containment booms act like a fence to keep the oil from
spreading or floating away. Booms float on the surface and have
three parts: a ‘freeboard’ or part that rises above the water
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2) Chemical Treatment (Use of Dispersants)
Dispersants are chemicals that are designed to break down oil into smaller droplets, allowing
them to mix with water and spread more evenly. This makes it easier to recover and clean up
the oil spill.
Containment:
Containment refers to the process of surrounding and capturing the oil spill to prevent it from
spreading and reaching sensitive ecosystems. This is achieved through various methods,
including:
Booms: Booms are floating barriers made of rubber or plastic that can be deployed to contain
the oil spill. They are designed to absorb the oil and prevent it from spreading further.
Curtains: Curtains are similar to booms but are designed to be deployed in a wider area to
contain larger spills.
Sweep systems: Sweep systems are designed to collect oil from the surface of the water and
transport it back to shore for disposal.
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FATE OF OIL SPILLS
Garbage waste
How is the waste produced?
Garbage is a broad category similar to household waste. It includes food waste, plastics,
packaging, synthetic rope, incinerator ash and e-waste.
Garbage may not be disposed of at sea with minor exceptions such as shredded food waste
and animal carcasses. Ships are required to separate and waste. This waste is then disposed at
an approved shore disposal center.
Garbage discharge requirements under apply to all ships with guidelines for specified waste.
All ships over 400 gross tons or capable of carrying at least 15 people must have a which
includes publicly displayed graphics explaining garbage processing, discharge requirements
and a garbage record book.
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Food waste
Food waste from cargo and passenger vessels such as waste scraps and organic material.
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What restrictions are in effect?
In Canadian waters, minced food waste may be discharged if the ship is underway and more
than 3 nautical miles from land. Non-ground food waste may be discharged if the ship is
underway and more than 12 nautical miles from land.Offloading food waste in ports may be
restricted due to biosecurity risks.
All ships must carry a garbage record book for food wastes [MEPC. 201(62)]. Food disposal
must be signed by the ship’s captain citing time, date, amount, content, and location of
disposal.
There are three main sewage treatment processes: biological, physico-chemical and
electrocatalytic oxidation.
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Physical-chemical treatment of sewage
Physical-chemical treatment of sewage is based on the separation of the liquid element from
the sewage flow by bathing it in chlorine for thirty minutes to kill off coliform bacteria before
discharging it overboard. Usually treatment units using this type of process are designed to
hold only a fourteen-day accumulation of solids, then discharge to port sewage reception
facilities or outside territorial waters.
Electrocatalytic oxidation
This type of treatment plant collects the sewage and directs it through a macerator which
breaks it down into minute particles. Then, the sewage passes through an electrolytic cell
where the oxidation process takes place. Next, the effluent flows under its own pressure to a
settling tank for completion of oxidation process and direct discharge overboard. The
discharge contains no solids and is totally free of coliform bacteria.
Here are some key aspects of dangerous goods waste management in the maritime industry:
Hazardous Waste Definition: The IMO defines hazardous waste as any waste that is
hazardous, toxic, or corrosive, and poses a risk to human health, safety, and the
environment.
o Flammable liquids
o Corrosive substances
o Toxic substances
o Radioactive materials
o Infectious substances
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Packaging and Labeling: Hazardous waste must be packaged and labeled in
accordance with the IMO's guidelines for the packaging and labeling of hazardous
materials. This includes the use of special containers, drums, and bags that are
designed to prevent leakage and ensure easy identification.
Safety Precautions: Crews and passengers must be aware of the risks associated with
handling hazardous waste and take necessary precautions to prevent accidents, such as
wearing protective gear, using ventilation systems, and following emergency
procedures.
Storage and Handling: Hazardous waste must be stored in designated areas, away
from living quarters, food preparation areas, and other areas where people may be
present. Storage areas must be designed to prevent leakage and ensure easy access for
emergency responders.
Monitoring and Reporting: The maritime industry is required to monitor and report
any incidents involving hazardous waste, including spills, fires, or other accidents.
Some of the key challenges in managing hazardous waste in the maritime industry include:
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Space constraints: Vessels have limited storage space, making it challenging to
manage hazardous waste effectively.
Regulatory compliance: The maritime industry must comply with a wide range of
regulations and guidelines for managing hazardous waste.
To address these challenges, the maritime industry is adopting innovative solutions, such as:
Advanced packaging materials: New packaging materials are being developed that
can withstand harsh marine environments and reduce the risk of leakage.
Digital tracking systems: Electronic tracking systems are being used to monitor the
movement of hazardous waste and track compliance with regulations.
Biofouling: The growth of living organisms, like algae, bacteria, and mollusks, on
surfaces.
Chemical fouling: The formation of chemical compounds that can alter the surface
properties or create unwanted reactions.
Increased drag: Fouling can increase the resistance to water flow, leading to
increased energy consumption and reduced efficiency.
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Reduced performance: Fouling can impair the performance of equipment, such as
pumps, propellers, and heat exchangers.
Antifouling:
Antifouling refers to the use of coatings, paints, or other technologies to prevent or reduce
fouling on surfaces. Antifouling coatings are designed to:
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Bio-inspired coatings: Coatings that mimic the properties of natural surfaces, such as
lotus leaves or shark skin, which are resistant to fouling.
Maritime: To reduce drag and improve efficiency in ship design and operations.
The marine industry, vital for global trade and commerce, unfortunately, contributes to the
growing problem of marine pollution. From plastic waste to oil spills, the impact on marine
ecosystems is profound. Managing waste responsibly is not just a regulatory obligation; it is a
moral imperative to safeguard the oceans that sustain life on Earth.
Strict adherence to international and regional regulations is the cornerstone of effective waste
management in marine operations. Understanding and complying with regulations such as
MARPOL Annex V, which addresses the disposal of garbage at sea, is crucial. As
responsible stewards, we must go beyond compliance and actively seek ways to minimize our
environmental footprint.
Embracing the mantra of "reduce, reuse, recycle" is essential for waste management at sea.
Implementing waste reduction strategies onboard vessels, such as minimizing single-use
plastics and optimizing packaging, can significantly contribute to a more sustainable
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maritime industry. Encouraging crew members to participate in recycling initiatives further
enhances the impact.
The human element is critical in achieving effective waste management at sea. Training and
educating crew members about the environmental consequences of improper waste disposal
empower them to make sustainable choices. Encouraging a sense of responsibility and
environmental stewardship among maritime professionals is essential for fostering a culture
of sustainability.
As we navigate the vast blue expanse of our oceans, it is incumbent upon us to be mindful
stewards of the marine environment. By embracing sustainable waste management practices,
we can mitigate the impact of our operations on ocean health. Let us not merely comply with
regulations but strive to exceed them, working together to ensure that our maritime legacy is
one of responsibility, respect, and preservation for future generations.
1. Oil Spills
Prevention Strategies:
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Training and Drills: Conduct regular training for personnel on spill prevention and
response, along with frequent drills to ensure preparedness.
2. Garbage
Prevention Strategies:
3. Food Wastes
Prevention Strategies:
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Composting: Set up composting facilities to convert food waste into compost, which
can be used for landscaping or sold to local farmers.
Donations: Partner with local organizations to donate excess food to those in need,
where feasible and safe.
4. Sewage
Prevention Strategies:
Onboard Treatment Systems: Ensure that vessels are equipped with modern,
efficient sewage treatment systems.
Port Reception Facilities: Provide adequate port reception facilities for the collection
and treatment of sewage from ships.
Regulations and Compliance: Enforce strict compliance with international
regulations such as MARPOL Annex IV, which governs the discharge of sewage
from ships.
Awareness Campaigns: Educate ship operators and crew about the environmental
impacts of sewage discharge and the importance of proper management.
5. Dangerous Goods
Prevention Strategies:
Strict Regulations: Implement and enforce strict regulations for the handling,
storage, and transport of dangerous goods.
Training Programs: Provide specialized training for port workers and ship crews on
the safe handling of hazardous materials.
Proper Labeling and Documentation: Ensure that all dangerous goods are properly
labeled and documented to prevent mishandling.
Safety Protocols: Develop and enforce comprehensive safety protocols for the
storage and handling of hazardous materials, including emergency response plans.
Prevention Strategies:
Prevention Strategies:
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Integrated Waste Management Systems: Develop integrated waste management
systems that include waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and proper disposal.
Green Port Initiatives: Adopt green port initiatives that promote sustainable
practices, such as energy efficiency, reduced emissions, and waste minimization.
Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborate with local authorities, environmental
organizations, and other stakeholders to develop and implement effective waste
prevention strategies.
Continuous Improvement: Regularly review and update waste management
practices to incorporate new technologies, regulations, and best practices.
Conclusion
Preventing waste in port operations requires a comprehensive approach that involves regular
maintenance, advanced technology, strict regulations, and continuous education. By
implementing these strategies, ports can significantly reduce waste generation, protect the
marine environment, and ensure sustainable operations.
1. Source separation: Sorting waste at its source to categorize it into different types
(e.g., recyclables, organics, landfill-bound waste).
2. Recycling facilities: Establishing facilities to process and recycle various types of
waste, such as:
o C&D waste recycling facilities
o Hazardous waste treatment facilities
o Material recovery facilities (MRFs) for sorting and processing recyclables
3. Organic waste management: Composting or anaerobic digestion of organic waste to
produce nutrient-rich soil amendments or biogas.
4. Waste-to-energy: Converting non-recyclable waste into energy through incineration,
gasification, or plasma gasification.
5. Education and outreach: Promoting sustainable practices and raising awareness
among port stakeholders, including employees, contractors, and visitors.
6. Collaboration and partnerships: Working with local authorities, waste management
companies, and other stakeholders to develop and implement effective waste
recycling programs.
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Best practices in port waste recycling:
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References :
*https://clearseas.org/ship-waste-management/#:~:text=WASTE%20PRODUCED%20BY
%20SHIPS%20AND%20CREWS,-Click%20on%20the&text=As%20they%20move
%20from%20port,similar%20to%20typical%20household%20waste.
*https://www.vedantu.com/chemistry/sewage-management-methods
*https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/oilimpacts.html
*https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Environment/Pages/Garbage-Default.aspx
*https://www.emsa.europa.eu/protecting-the-marine-environment/anti-fouling.html
*https://www.researchgate.net/publication/
348310679_WASTE_MANAGEMENT_OF_A_MARITIME_PORT_THE_CASE_OF_MO
NGLA_PORT
*https://www.marineinsight.com/maritime-law/what-is-garbage-management-plan-gmp-on-a-
ship/#:~:text=The%20Garbage%20Management%20Plan%20is,in%20Annex%20V%20of
%20MARPOL.
*https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0011916423001364
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