Bahrain Joins Global Maritime Air Pollution Agreement

Kingdom adopts MARPOL Annex VI to reduce ship emissions and protect marine environment

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain has officially joined Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), strengthening its commitment to protecting the marine environment and reducing air pollution from the maritime transport sector.

The move brings Bahrain in line with international environmental standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), focusing on controlling harmful emissions from ships and promoting cleaner maritime operations.

MARPOL Annex VI introduces regulations to limit air pollution from vessels, including restrictions on sulfur content in ship fuel, controls on nitrogen oxide emissions from marine engines, and measures to reduce particulate matter and other harmful substances.

The annex also requires ships to obtain the International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate (IAPP) and comply with energy efficiency measures aimed at lowering carbon emissions.

Bahrain had previously joined the MARPOL Convention and its Annexes I, II and V under Law No. (32) of 2005. The accession to Annex VI further expands the Kingdom’s environmental commitments in the maritime sector.

Undersecretary for Ports and Maritime Affairs at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, Bader Hood Al-Mahmoud, said the move reflects Bahrain’s dedication to supporting global efforts to protect marine ecosystems and reduce emissions from shipping.

He added that Bahrain will continue enhancing maritime inspections and monitoring systems to ensure ships visiting Bahraini ports and vessels registered under the national flag comply with the new environmental requirements.

The implementation of Annex VI is expected to improve the efficiency and sustainability of Bahrain’s maritime sector while reinforcing the Kingdom’s role as a regional maritime hub committed to international environmental standards.