Module 17 - Marine Environment
Garbage Disposal
Under MARPOL Annex V, the discharge of garbage into the sea is prohibited unless a specific exception applies. Deliberate discharge of plastics is prohibited. Food-waste rules depend on where you are and whether the waste is comminuted: outside special areas, ground food waste that can pass through a 25mm screen may be discharged only more than 3 nautical miles from nearest land; unground food waste normally needs at least 12 nautical miles. Special areas, polar waters, and local rules can be stricter.
In practice, the simplest approach for recreational sailors is to bring all waste back to shore. Separate recyclables and dispose of everything properly at marina waste facilities.
- Plastics - do not deliberately discharge at sea
- Food waste - rules depend on area and whether it is ground or comminuted
- Best practice — bring ALL waste back to shore
- Use marina recycling and waste facilities
Watch for this: Carry spare bin bags and a dedicated waste container. It takes almost no effort to bring rubbish ashore, and it makes an enormous difference.
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This public lesson is part of Revision Module 17. Full revision access adds the guided Learn, Practise and Test flow, flashcards and revision progress.