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In Turkish waters, environmental protection is developing, and significant fines are applicable to vessels that violate Turkish anti-pollution regulations. As per the latest amendments to be brought into effect on 01st January 2026, there is an increase 25.49 %) in the amount of the fines that are being applied by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) against the offending vessels compared to the previous year.

In the event of a sea pollution, fines are being issued by the following authorities in Turkiye:

POLLUTION FINE ISSUED BY THE TURKISH EPA

The administrative fines will be imposed in accordance with the Turkish Environmental Code dated 1983, numbered 2872.

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The risks associated with the carriage of plastic pellets in containers and provides practical measures to prevent spillage and protect the marine environment.

Understanding the risks of plastic pellets

In recent years, several high-profile incidents have occurred, such as the Trans Carrier in 2020 and the XPress Pearl in 2021, where containers have fallen overboard from container ships and resulted in the release of plastic pellets into seas and oceans with subsequent harm to the marine environment.

While the carriage of plastic pellets in shipping containers is a secure means of shipment, the environmental concern arises when these containers are lost overboard. Once plastic pellets are released, their physical properties of being small and light allow them to travel extensive distances from the initial release location.

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A key information relating to stowaway incidents and loss prevention measures, highlighting the ongoing risks at West African ports and the importance of proactive strategies to protect vessels and crew.

Case studies

As explained, during the 2025 P&I year, the number and geographic distribution of stowaway cases handled by China P&I Club indicate that stowaway incidents remain frequent in Africa, especially at West African ports. The Club has provided three case studies of incidents occurring throughout the year. These are: 

Case #1

In February 2025, member vessel A departed from Lagos, Nigeria, bound for Kribi, Cameroon. Before leaving Lagos, the captain reported conducting two stowaway prevention inspections and confirmed safety.

However, several days later, after anchoring at Kribi, a stowaway was discovered at the deck ladder by a duty sailor.

The stowaway stated that he had gone to the vessel’s crane control room after boarding and hid in a corner there.

After discovery, the crew properly accommodated him in a cabin, and with the assistance of the local shipping agent, he was repatriated from Kribi.

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A dangerous goods quick reference guide regarding corrosive substances, outlining do’s and don’ts on handling those Class 8 cargoes.

Class 8 dangerous goods include corrosive substances that chemically damage living tissue and metals. They can react violently, produce heat and gases when mixed with other substances or exposed to temperature deviations. Risks include property damage, cargo damage, injury, environmental harm, insurance invalidation, and potential criminal prosecution.

Examples:

Acids: Sulfuric acid, Hydrochloric acid, Oleum (fuming sulfuric acid), Nitric acid, Hydrofluoric acid.

Alkalis/Bases: Caustic potash (Potassium hydroxide), Caustic soda (Sodium hydroxide), Ammonia anhydrous, some drain cleaners, some bleaches.

Classification is influenced by chemistry (organic/inorganic) and state (liquid/solid).