Garbage logs are required on vessels of what size?

Garbage logs are a critical component of waste management on vessels, as they help ensure compliance with international regulations regarding the disposal of waste at sea. The correct specification for garbage log requirements starts at vessels of 400 gross tonnage (GT) and above. This threshold reflects the increased potential for waste generation on larger vessels, which can significantly impact marine environments if not managed properly.

The regulations surrounding garbage logs are largely influenced by the MARPOL Convention, specifically Annex V, which deals with the disposal of garbage from ships. Vessels that meet or exceed the 400 GT requirement are mandated to maintain a garbage record book detailing all waste disposal activities. This requirement aims to promote environmental protection by enforcing rigorous tracking and documentation of waste management practices.

Smaller vessels, while still having waste management responsibilities, are not subject to this specific record-keeping requirement, thus emphasizing the importance of monitoring waste disposal on larger ships that typically operate over longer durations and carry a higher volume of waste. This distinction underlines the need for stricter oversight on larger vessels to mitigate their potential environmental impact.