Riyadh, January 12, 2025 – In a significant move to protect the marine environment and strengthen its commitment to sustainable practices, Saudi Arabia’s Transport General Authority (TGA) has officially adopted the executive regulations of the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships (2001). This decision reinforces the Kingdom's dedication to aligning with international environmental standards and ensuring the long-term health of its marine ecosystems.
The new regulations are specifically designed to govern the use of anti-fouling systems on ships, which are applied to ship hulls to prevent the accumulation of harmful organisms such as algae, barnacles, and mussels. These fouling organisms can decrease a ship's efficiency, increase fuel consumption, and lead to significant ecological damage. The adoption of these regulations ensures that Saudi Arabia is taking proactive steps to reduce the environmental harm caused by the adhesion of such organisms to ship hulls, as well as the toxic substances sometimes used in harmful anti-fouling practices.
The regulations provide comprehensive guidelines on the implementation of environmental standards for anti-fouling systems. They establish clear definitions of the systems that fall under the scope of the convention, as well as the responsibilities of ship owners and operators to ensure compliance. Among the key provisions are specific requirements for regular ship inspections, maintenance of anti-fouling systems, and the conditions for facilities that apply or remove these systems. By establishing these standards, the TGA aims to ensure that ships operating under the Kingdom’s jurisdiction are equipped with environmentally friendly anti-fouling solutions that contribute to the protection of both marine life and human health.
This regulatory framework is in direct alignment with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) convention, which came into effect in September 2008. The IMO convention aims to minimize environmental damage from harmful anti-fouling practices, especially those that involve the use of toxic chemicals. By adopting these regulations, Saudi Arabia not only meets its obligations under international law but also underscores its position as a responsible and proactive player in the global effort to safeguard marine ecosystems.
The TGA has set a clear timeline for the full implementation of these regulations, signaling a determined push toward improving the Kingdom's environmental sustainability practices. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes environmental sustainability as a core element of the Kingdom’s future growth and development. The adoption of these measures highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its leadership in protecting marine environments at both the national and international levels.
By taking these decisive actions, Saudi Arabia is not only fulfilling its environmental obligations but also playing a pivotal role in advancing global efforts to preserve the world's oceans. Through these efforts, the Kingdom demonstrates its dedication to sustainable development, ensuring that the marine environment remains protected for future generations while facilitating the safe and efficient operation of maritime transport.