The International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response has agreed on a draft updated strategy and action plan to tackle plastic pollution from ships, including fishing vessels.

Meeting at IMO Headquarters in London from 9 to 13 February 2026 for its 13th session (PPR 13), the Sub-Committee finalized the draft 2026 Strategy and Action Plan to Address Marine Plastic Litter from Ships, to be submitted for adoption by the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 84) when it convenes from 27 April to 1 May 2026. Cutting shipping's contribution to ocean litter

Once adopted, the 2026 Strategy and Action Plan will supersede IMO's 2021 marine plastics strategy and 2025 action plan, bringing them together in a single, streamlined approach while reaffirming the Organization's ambition to achieve zero plastic waste discharges to sea from ships by 2030.

The updated Strategy and Action Plan will focus on:
• Reducing shipping's contribution to ocean plastic pollution;
• Improving the effectiveness of port reception facilities and ship waste processing; and
• Strengthening international regulations and compliance.

Actions will also boost seafarer training, public awareness and regulatory knowledge, as well as strengthen technical cooperation and capacity-building for Member States.

Source: International Maritime Organization

 

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