1. In May 2021, a fire on the ship near the waters of Sri Lanka resulted in the release of 11,000 tons of plastic pellets into the ocean. This incident highlighted the need for clear guidelines and requirements for the shipping, handling, and labeling of containers transporting plastic pellets, leading to ongoing discussions at the IMO

2. At the recent 81st session of the MEPC, the guideline for Recommendations for the carriage of plastic pellets by sea in freight containers (MEPC.1/Circ.909) was approved. This guideline serves as a short-term measure to reduce the environmental risks associated with the marine transport of packaged plastic pellets, prior to the development of mandatory requirements.

3. Accordingly, this technical information was issued to share with the relevant stakeholders such as shipowners, manufacturers and surveyors for reference in their respective tasks.