The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued fines totalling $81,474 against two commercial ships over inspection, monitoring, and reporting violations in California and Louisiana.
In a news release (presented furtherbelow), the EPA said: "Improper management of ballast water can introduce invasive species or damage local species by disrupting habitats and increasing competitive pressure. Discharges of other waste streams regulated by the Vessel General Permit (e.g., graywater, exhaust gas scrubber water, lubricants, etc.) can cause toxic impacts to local species or contain pathogenic organisms. Therefore, it is important that such discharges be monitored to ensure that aquatic ecosystems are protected from vessel discharges that contain pollutants. Failure to comply with the Vessel General Permit requirements can result in significant penalties.”
As pressure on industries, governments, and companies to decarbonise increases, so does the need for the shipping industry to inform the public and decision makers and increase transparency about the industry’s efforts to decarbonise.
With Christmas fast approaching, the moment calls for something festive!
Trimming the tree is everyone's favorite Christmas traditions as well following the footsteps of Greek trandition of decorating of small boats with strings of lights and garland, and trimmed with ornaments. Different legends explain the tradition of the Christmas Greek boat. One of them is related to Saint Nicholas (Agios Nikolaos), the Patron Saint of Sailors, thus our Christmas boat which is named after him!
Project Connect "Adopt a Ship” program aiming to bring together Greek Elementary Schools and Seafarers on board Merchant Ships in order to provide a real-world learning experience for elementary school children. Project Connect is a non-profit organization founded in May 2015 with the support of Greek shipowners and distinguished professionals in Shipping and Human Resources.