22nd Regular Session of the Scientific Committee

SC22 will consider updates on the intersessional review of CMM 2017-04 on marine pollution, including definitions, data and reporting implications, and environmental impacts.

• WCPFC22 discussed the ongoing review of CMM 2017-04 on marine pollution, led by Canada through an intersessional process aimed at developing a revised CMM for adoption at WCPFC23, with outputs to be submitted to SC22 and TCC22. The discussions highlighted the need to expand the scope beyond existing provisions, including clearer definitions such as abandoned, lost or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), broader coverage of pollution sources like plastics, e-waste, emissions and noise, and stronger reporting requirements and data frameworks, while ensuring alignment with international instruments such as MARPOL and avoiding unintended legal conflicts. The revision also introduces more detailed management elements, including reporting timelines, port reception facilities, and treatment of fishing gear and waste categories. 

• ^ International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships