NSML deploys measures to eliminate pollution from vessels

NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) said it has taken practical steps to ensure all vessels under its management comply with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) to achieve clean oceans and waterways in Nigeria.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed, stated this as the global community marks the 2023 World Maritime Day (WMD) on September 28 with the theme: ‘MARPOL at 50 – Our Commitment Goes On’.

He said MARPOL 73/78 ensures that shipping remains the least environmentally damaging mode of transport and ensures the marine environment is preserved through the elimination of all harmful substances discharged from ships.

According to him, MARPOL convention provides standards on stowing, handling, shipping and transferring of toxic waste as well as laying down rules relating to the disposal of ship-generated wastes.

He noted that MARPOL’s six implemented annexes address different aspects of marine pollution, including oil, sewage, garbage, air emissions and other marine pollution.

Ahmed said NSML’s commitment to clean oceans, seas and waterways is absolute as all vessels under its management are operated safely, efficiently and sustainably.

He said NSML also ensures that the vessels are equipped with the necessary machinery and systems to prevent pollution and comply with the regulations.

Ahmed listed the machinery deployed to include an oil-water separator (OWS) for the filtration of wastewater to a standard acceptable by all port authorities around the globe, biological sewage treatment plants, garbage disposal systems-macerators, compactors and incinerators.

He noted that in compliance with the requirements of MARPOL annexes, detailed records of all relevant operations and activities, including waste management practices, equipment maintenance, inspections, testing and any incidents or non-compliance issues are kept on board the vessel and maintained for the required period.

Ahmed said the Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCOE) of NSML provides turnkey engineering solutions for complying with the Ballast Water Management Convention.

According to him, seven fleet vessels have successfully been retrofitted with 6,000 cubic meter electro-chlorination plants each for the treatment of ballast water.

Ahmed said NSML has also trained crewmembers, shipping companies and operators in a safe and controlled environment on liquid cargo operations and new maritime regulations.

He said these trainings help participants to be aware of the regulations and understand their roles and responsibilities in complying with MARPOL requirements.

“We regularly review and update our compliance plan to ensure ongoing compliance with the latest requirements. This enhances awareness of and compliance with any additional regulations or requirements imposed by the vessel’s flag state or the port state in which we operate. These may include additional reporting or monitoring requirements as well as specific procedures for handling and disposing of waste,” he added.