West Sea Coast Guard Reports Significant Decrease in Pollutant Discharge in West and South Seas

Analysis of the Last Five Years...
Pollutant Discharge Down by About 77% Year-on-Year
Number of Marine Pollution Incidents Remains at Average Level

The West Regional Coast Guard Headquarters (Commissioner Lee Myungjun) announced on the 31st that the total number of marine pollution incidents in the West and South Sea areas last year was 68, which is similar to the five-year average of 65 cases. However, the amount of pollutants such as oil released was 13.3㎘, a decrease of about 77% (45㎘) compared to the previous year.

The West Sea Regional Coast Guard announced that over the past five years, the number of marine pollution incidents in the West and South Sea areas has remained roughly the same, but the amount of pollutants discharged has significantly decreased. The photo shows the cleanup operation in progress. Provided by the West Sea Regional Coast Guard.

This reduction is attributed to intensive management of areas vulnerable to marine pollution and proactive measures to prevent discharge, such as sealing hull breaches and transferring oil. An analysis by incident type shows that 37 cases (54.4%) of pollution occurred on fishing vessels, and the main cause was pollution resulting from marine accidents such as flooding and collisions, accounting for 27 cases (39.7%). By region, the area under the jurisdiction of the Yeosu Coast Guard, which has high vessel traffic, accounted for the largest share with 34 cases (50%).

An official from the West Regional Coast Guard Headquarters stated, "Although the amount of pollutant discharge has significantly decreased, minor pollution incidents involving fishing vessels and barges continue to occur, and major oil spill accidents involving tankers and cargo ships can happen at any time. Therefore, we will strengthen education on the prevention of marine pollutant discharge for maritime workers and enhance maritime patrols."

Meanwhile, of the 68 total marine pollution incidents, response measures using oil absorbents and other materials were completed for 51 cases where further spread of damage was anticipated. In addition, for 42 vessels with a high risk of pollutant discharge, measures such as oil transfer (35㎘) and sealing (49 locations) were implemented to minimize pollutant release.