Southern Ocean fishing vessel management

This paper provides an update on the development of safety measures for non-SOLAS vessels, including fishing vessels, by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and refers to initiatives aimed at the implementation of the IMO’s Polar Code. It also elaborates on the development of an action plan to address marine plastic pollution from shipping by the IMO. ASOC calls on CCAMLR and its Members to contribute to expanded cooperation between the IMO and the Antarctic Treaty System in areas of relevance to fishing vessels including by:

• Engaging fully in the negotiations at the IMO to ensure that any recommendatory or mandatory provisions adopted for non-SOLAS vessels are “fit for purpose” in the Antarctic Area (south of 60°S).
• Designating a CCAMLR observer to the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee and relevant technical sub-committees to facilitate CCAMLR’s engagement in developing guidelines and mandatory measures for fishing vessels operating in polar waters.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        
• Supporting urgent and effective action through the IMO to address the threat from ship-sourced marine plastics.
• Assisting in the collection and analysis of data to inform management and mitigation of vessel impacts on marine mammals including avoidance planning by ships operating in Antarctic waters.

Further CCAMLR should:

• Note the operationalization of the Arctic Council’s Arctic Shipping Best Practice Information Forum and agree to collaborate meaningfully in the exchange of best practice.