USA

Garbage segregation in California

A recent incident in California has highlighted the need for scrupulous care in handling garbage onboard and the need to segregate non-biodegradable material.

The United States has enacted under CFR 33 Part 151 the regulations laid out by Annex V of MARPOL 73/78, Regulation 9 (placards, garbage management plan and garbage record-keeping).

A Member's ship underwent a routine Port State Control inspection where particular care was paid by the attending United States Coast Guard (USCG) Officer to the garbage on board. A close inspection of the stored garbage revealed the presence of what appeared to be a plastic wrapper (i.e. a nonbiodegradable material) in the foodstuff's bin. A detention order was issued and the Member now faces a fine for this apparent breach.

The 'plastic' in question is thought to have been cellophane, an entirely biodegradable product made of cellulose. However, the distinction may not be readily evident and Members are reminded to pay close attention to proper segregation. Clear wrapping material ought to be disposed of in the plastic bin to avoid potential detentions and fines.