In a concerted effort to bolster collaboration in responding to marine pollution incidents, the Korea Coast Guard organised an international workshop in Yeosu, Republic of Korea, on November 30, 2023. Gathering Coast Guard officials from the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, and the United States of America, alongside participants such as the Northwest Pacific Action Plan (NOWPAP), the International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited (ITOPF), Oil Spill Response Limited(OSRL), Korea Marine Management Cooperation (KOEM), Korea Research Institute of Ships & Ocean Engineering (KRISO), and the Korea Environmental Institute (KEI), the workshop served as a platform for knowledge exchange and strategic planning.
The Philippine Coast Guard took the initiative to highlight a significant oil spill incident that occurred on Mindoro Island, the Philippines. This incident, which unfolded on February 28, 2023, involved the spillage of approximately 800,000 litres of industrial fuel oil in the waters off Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. The response efforts received support from the governments of the USA, Japan, and the Republic of Korea, in addition to collaborative assistance provided by ITOPF, OSRL, and CEDRE of France. Valuable insights and lessons derived from this incident were extensively deliberated during the workshop.
Key presentations and discussions during the workshop included NOWPAP sharing insights into its Regional Oil and Noxious and Hazardous Substances Spill Contingency Plan, ITOPF offering valuable insights into recent global incidents and emerging trends, OSRL showcasing the latest advancements in oil spill response technology, and the Korea Environment Institute elucidating its pivotal role in aiding Vietnam's development of marine pollution response capabilities.
On December 1, 2023 workshop, the Korea Coast Guard organised a shoreline clean-up exercise in Yeosu. This hands-on activity witnessed the active participation of around one hundred Yeosu volunteers, allowing them to engage and exchange views with the workshop participants.
The intensified industrial and economic activities, coupled with the high shipping density in East Asian countries, have rendered them particularly susceptible to the severe impact of oil and Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) spills. Recognising this vulnerability, there's a pressing need to fortify international cooperation in preparedness and readiness to address marine disasters effectively.
