IACS: Interpretation of MARPOL Annex VI Data and SEEMP Compliance

Eda Zenic -

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has published a new Unified Interpretation that addresses the application of recent amendments to Appendix IX of MARPOL Annex VI, which were adopted by MEPC.385(81). These amendments require certain data collection and reporting practices for ships.

Key Regulations:

  1. Regulations 27.1 and 27.2: Starting from 2019, ships with a gross tonnage of 5,000 or more must collect and aggregate data as specified in Appendix IX for each calendar year.
  2. Regulation 5.4.5: Before collecting any data, a ship must ensure its Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) complies with regulation 26.2. This compliance must be confirmed and retained onboard.
  3. Regulation 26.2: The SEEMP must include details on how data required by regulation 27.1 will be collected and reported.

Interpretation:

To ensure consistent data reporting, the term "portion thereof" in regulations 27.1 and 27.2 means that all data collected within a calendar year should be reported with the same level of detail. Additionally, ships must revise their SEEMP to meet regulation 26.2 before beginning data collection.

Implementation:

This interpretation will be enforced by IACS Societies for ships starting from November 1, 2024.