According to West P&I Club, for the West Coast of Canada, the recent clarifications from Transport Canada regarding ballast water discharge regulations have provided much-needed guidance for vessels operating in this region.
According to the regulations, vessels heading to designated freshwater ports are required to adhere to strict ballast water exchange and treatment (E+T) protocols. This requirement aims to mitigate the risks associated with transporting aquatic species that could harm local habitats.
Ballast water is often taken on board by ships to maintain stability, but if not managed correctly, it can introduce invasive species and pollutants into local ecosystems.
Following inquiries from industry stakeholders, including INTERTANKO, Transport Canada clarified that the E+T procedure is mandatory only for vessels traveling to specific freshwater ports, namely Kitimat, Stewart, and ports along the Fraser River. This distinction is crucial for ship operators, as it outlines where the most stringent regulations apply.
For ports like Vancouver, additional specifications have also been provided. Vessels planning to dock at berths located west of Tilbury or Mitchell Islands on the Fraser River are exempt from the E+T requirements. However, those heading to berths east of these islands must comply with the E+T protocols.
Impact on Westridge Marine Terminal
One terminal that stands to benefit from this clarification is the Westridge Marine Terminal in Burnaby, BC. Since Westridge is not classified as a designated freshwater port, vessels calling at this terminal are exempt from the E+T requirements. This aligns Westridge’s operational procedures more closely with those at Vancouver, simplifying the compliance landscape for ship operators.
