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Security Levels

In 1990, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted a resolution recommending that governments adopt measures to eliminate anti-fouling paints containing tributyltin (TBT).  In November 1999, after years of research and review of the environmental issues, an IMO Assembly resolution charged the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) to develop a worldwide, legally binding instrument to address this issue on ships.  The resolution called for a global prohibition on the application of organotin compounds by 1 January 2003, and a complete prohibition by 1 January 2008.

In October 2001, IMO adopted the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling Systems on Ships. This prohibits the use of harmful organotins in anti-fouling paints used on ships, and will establish a mechanism to prevent the potential future use of other harmful substances in anti-fouling systems. 

The Coast Guard is part of an US interagency group, led by the Environmental Protection Agency, that is addressing this issue domestically.

For additional information:

EPA Ambient Aquatic Life Water Quality Criteria for Tributyltin

Contact the Environmental Standards Division:

Tel: 202-372-1402

E-mail:  environmental_standards@uscg.mil

Listserv:  http://cgls.uscg.mil/mailman/listinfo/environmentalstds

Web:  www.uscg.mil/environmental_standards/