I just caught a small newsbit of environmental regulation updating by the Canadian Government. Of course what are regulations if no one is there to enforce, but at least its a step in the right direction. With Alaska and Washington stricker standards, I believe the BC coast became the dumping ground for vessels in transit. I am not harden environmentalist, but I believe a sustainable approach with an even playing field is neccessary here. So I think its good news that we will be strenghtening regulations.
- Martin
VANCOUVER/CKNW(AM980) - The Conservative Government has announced new regulations aimed at protecting the marine environment from sewage and pollution from ships.The new regulations will come into effect September 15th and will mean an absolute ban on the dumping of untreated sewage from small boats within three miles of shore and from large ships within 12 miles.
Port Moody Westwood Port Coquitlam MP James Moore says current Canadian rules are below International standards. ".......and we're elevating Canada to International standards that are already in place with the three nautical miles and 12 nautical miles and this is a huge step in the right direction"
Also included are rules around air emissions and bilge water discharge, However the Government has no current plans to boost resources towards enforcement of these new regulations.