South Africa is introducing new restrictions on ship-to-ship (STS) operations, including bunkering, aimed at safeguarding coastal ecosystems.

IMAGE: Penguins on St. Croix, Algoa Bay, South Africa. Getty Images

The regulations, signed by Forest, Fisheries and Environment Minister Dr. Dion George, are designed to prevent pollution, reduce the impact of spills and secure the survival of the endangered African Penguin, among other marine species and ecosystems in Algoa Bay and other biodiversity hotspots in the country.

The new rules will restrict offshore ship-to-ship bunkering in all marine protected areas (MPAs) and aquaculture development zones, within five nautical miles of such zones and within three nautical miles of high-water mark at all shores.

Operators will be required to submit an independent Environment management plan and train all crew on environmental awareness. They will also have to deploy hydrophone systems to monitor penguins and marine mammals.

Other enforced requirements include drip trays, leak detection systems, inflatable booms, and a spill-response vessel on standby within five nautical miles of shore.

In Algoa Bay, which is the offshore bunkering hub in the country, STS operations can be carried out in anchorage areas 1 and 2 and a maximum of three operators and six tankers can operate in the area. 

STS transfers will be restricted in anchorage area 2 between 1 April to 31 August to protect sensitive habitats, including the nearby St Croix Island which is home to a significant population of African Penguins. 

In Algoa Bay, operations will be allowed only when wind speeds are below 22 knots and wave heights are below two meters. The Ministry said it may enforce similar weather limits elsewhere to ensure all bunkering takes place in safe conditions.

Offshore bunkering in Algoa Bay resumed earlier this year after being suspended since September 2023, when South Africa’s Revenue Service (SARS) detained five barges over import duty disputes.

By Nachiket Tekawade

Please get in touch with comments or additional info to news@engine.online