BIMCO has released a Best Practice Guide aimed at helping shipowners reduce their single-use plastic (SUP) footprint by installing advanced drinking water systems onboard.
The guide focuses on providing high-quality drinking water for seafarers, promoting their wellbeing while addressing the environmental issues associated with plastic waste. A 2021 BIMCO survey revealed that cargo ships use between half a billion and one billion plastic water bottles each year, contributing significantly to marine litter and environmental degradation.
Key recommendations include
- ensuring water quality through regular testing,
- transparent communication of test results,
- and initiatives to build seafarers’ trust in onboard water.
According to BIMCO, by following these guidelines, shipowners can not only contribute to environmental preservation but also foster a healthier onboard environment for their crews.
To combat the impact of plastic waste, which includes high greenhouse gas emissions and substantial water use during production, BIMCO encourages shipowners to remove SUP bottles and adopt more sustainable practices.
The guide also outlines the benefits of transitioning away from plastic, including cost savings and enhanced corporate responsibility. It also offers practical advice for selecting and maintaining advanced drinking water systems, incorporating the experiences of members who have successfully implemented these changes.
