A New Mandatory Code for Shipping in Polar Waters

Abstract

In this article, the author summarizes the current status and direction of the so-called Polar Code, a mandatory code for shipping in both Arctic and Antarctic waters, by focusing on a few issues of priority to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (as opposed to issues related to the Code in their entirety). It is expected that Part I of the Code, which addresses safety of cargo vessels and cruise ships in polar waters, will be adopted in late 2014, and Part II, which covers measures to address environmental protection, will be adopted in mid-2015. These issues are as follows: the need for a Polar Code; application of the Polar Code; vessel categories - reversing the burden of proof; safety training; predicting environmental conditions; wildlife considerations; real-time positioning considerations; operational discharges from vessels; emissions to air; and non-safety of life at sea (SOLAS) vessels. The author concludes by noting the importance of recognizing that the intent of the Polar Code is to ensure that the increasing number of vessels in polar waters are operating in a safe manner while limiting their impact on the environment, rather than simply limiting the number of vessels operating in polar waters.