IMO: approval of strategic project 2026 to reduce plastic waste discharged from ships

The 2026 strategy and action plan, aimed at combating plastic waste discharged into the marine environment from ships, have both been approved by the International Maritime Organisation's Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response (PPR), it announced on 25/02/2026.

These documents, adopted at the end of the 13^th session of the sub-committee meeting in London from 09 to 13/02, update and replace the strategy adopted by a resolution in 2021, as well as the 2025 action plan, adopted in April 2025.

"The strategy reaffirms IMO's commitment to reducing marine plastic waste from all ships, including fishing vessels", says the organisation.

It also aims to "reduce the contribution of shipping to ocean plastic pollution, improve the efficiency of port waste reception and handling facilities, while strengthening international rules and their enforcement".

The aim is to achieve "zero discharge of plastic waste at sea from ships by 2030", says the IMO.

In addition, the revised strategy and action plan aim to:
• "increase public awareness and improve education and training of seafarers;
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