Impact of global shipping litter crisis is highlighted
GUERNSEY conservationist Richard Lord has highlighted the impact of the global shipping litter crisis in a presentation to the International Maritime Organisation in London.
Mr Lord has spent the last few years recording shipping-related litter from more than 80 countries that has washing up on Guernsey’s beaches.
‘Guernsey’s location near one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes makes it a key site for monitoring illegal waste disposal,’ he said.
‘Documenting plastic bottles from 67 countries and litter from over 80 highlights the global scale of this problem.’
He told the conference that this evidence points to ongoing violations of Marpol Annex V, which prohibits ships from dumping waste at sea.
Mr Lord is advocating for stronger enforcement of these regulations, and is supporting ‘Oceans of Plastic’ awareness day.
The global initiative aims to address the pressing issue of plastic pollution in our oceans and takes place today.
Guernsey’s proximity to the English Channel shipping lanes – handling global freight between Europe and the rest of the world – has made it a frontline for shipping litter.
Mr Lord has found that much of this waste originates from merchant ships, with hazardous materials occasionally requiring emergency intervention.
His research also connects Guernsey’s experience to a broader international issue, showing similar debris patterns on coastlines as far as Australia, Brazil, and remote islands like Henderson Island in the Pacific.
Mr Lord’s work has been supported by the local ‘Found on the Beach in Guernsey’ social media group community, and backed by Insurance Corporation’s 2024 Conservation Awards.
‘The prize money from the Conservation Awards enabled me to travel to London and deliver this vital message to international delegates,’ he said.
‘Recognition like this helps drive forward our mission to document shipping litter and advocate for meaningful change.’
He now plans to publish a catalogue of the litter collected from Guernsey’s shores to further raise awareness and influence policy.
He emphasized that while the Marpol regulations are in place, enforcement is the responsibility of individual member states.
Community efforts like those in Guernsey play a crucial role in exposing violations and advocating for stronger accountability.
n For more information visit the Found on the Beach in Guernsey Facebook group page.
