The Red Sea and Gulf of Aden: a new chapter in marine conservation begins

From 1 January 2025, the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden area is recognized as a ‘Special Area’ under MARPOL Annex I, where the discharge of oil or oily mixtures into the sea from ships of 400 gross tonnage and above is prohibited, except in certain circumstances such as when the ship is en route. In addition, from January 1, 2025, the discharge of garbage into the sea by ships transiting through the Red Sea area will be permitted only when the ship is in transit and in accordance with the provisions of Regulation 6 of Annex V.