Transport Canada has brought in a new regulation to control pollution from shipping operations in the Arctic region, which connects the country with other nations via waterways and serves as an important lifeline for its northern communities.
The new ‘Arctic Shipping Safety and Pollution Prevention Regulations’ include the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (the Polar Code), which aims to addresses issues faced by certain vessels operating in the Arctic and Antarctic.
The new regulation also features multiple safety and pollution prevention measures, including initiatives related to vessel design and equipment, vessel operations and crew training.
Additionally, the new rules intend to promote the Government of Canada’s standards for marine shipping in Arctic region.
Furthermore, Transport Canada has unveiled a C$1.5bn ($1.2bn) Oceans Protection Plan to protect the country’s coasts, as well as facilitate safe and responsible shipping in Arctic waters.
The plan will see the government review the Pilotage Act to help deliver safe, efficient and environmentally responsible pilotage services in the North.
Canada Transport Minister Marc Garneau said: “These new regulations demonstrate Canada’s leadership on the international stage when it comes to shipping safety and pollution prevention in the Arctic.
“Under the Oceans Protection Plan, we will continue to protect the safety of those who travel on Canada’s waters and safeguard our coasts for future generations as we continue to support the economy.”
Garneau previously announced a funding award of more than C$175m ($140m) to help conserve Arctic waters in August last year.
