Marina Refuse and Recycling Facilities

Recht, Fran; ,

Marina Refuse and Recycling Facilities

by Fran Recht, Pacific States Marine Fisheries, Commission, Depoe Bay, United States,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Coastal Zone '91

Abstract:

Because of widespread concern regarding the impacts of plastic refuse on marine life, forty-one nations are now party to a treaty which prohibits the disposal of plastics at sea, restricts the at-sea disposal of other solid waste materials, and mandates provision of dockside refuse reception facilities. This international law, known as Annex V of MARPOL, has been in effect since December 31, 1988. It is enacted into U.S. law through the provisions of the Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act of 1987. Annex V of MARPOL requires commercial marinas, ports, and other docking facilities to provide their customers with 'adequate refuse reception facilities'. This means that mariners returning to port with stowed refuse should be able to avail themselves of ample and conveniently located refuse containers. Many West Coast marinas have found that setting up a recycling system can be an inexpensive and efficient way to increase refuse handling capacity and reduce costs. Experience gained from many refuse reception projects indicates that well differentiated and conveniently located facilities are necessary to encourage refuse return and recycling. However, the mere availability of such facilities is not sufficient. An outreach and education program is also essential if good participation and cooperation is to be had. This program must inform both port employees and mariners of the importance of the system and involve them in the planning.

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