The Canadian government has implemented new mandatory measures for cruise ships regarding the discharge of greywater and sewage in Canadian waters. The aim is to promote environmentally responsible practices while balancing the economic benefits of the cruise industry. The measures prohibit the discharge of greywater and treated sewage within three nautical miles from shore, and enhanced treatment standards must be met for discharge between three and twelve nautical miles from shore in non-Arctic waters. Cruise ships will be required to report compliance with the regulations. Non-compliance can result in fines of up to CAD $250,000. These measures align with conservation goals for Canada’s oceans and extend to Marine Protected Areas and marine refuges. The regulations exceed international standards and reflect comparable measures in the United States. Greywater and sewage contain pollutants that can harm marine ecosystems. The new measures have immediate effect through an Interim Order while permanent regulations are being developed.
