Bunker License (Marine Environment Protection)
Bunkering is the process of supplying fuel to ships for their operational needs. As a high-risk operation, it demands utmost care and vigilance to prevent accidents such as fires or oil spills, which could have severe environmental and economic consequences. To regulate and ensure the safety of bunkering operations within Sri Lankan waters, the Bunker License (Marine Environment Protection) was established under the Bunkering (Marine Environmental Protection) Regulations No. 02 of 2011, as published in the Special Gazette Notification No. 1741/19 on January 19, 2012. These regulations are rooted in the Marine Pollution Prevention Act No. 35 of 2008.
Carrying out bunkering activities without a valid bunker license issued by the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) is illegal. The primary objectives of this licensing system include:
The bunker license is valid for one calendar year, with renewal requiring adherence to a detailed procedural framework. Standards for bunker vessels are outlined in the regulations to ensure consistency with global benchmarks for environmental protection and operational safety.
Through stringent application processes, inspections, monitoring, and enforcement, MEPA aims to safeguard Sri Lanka’s marine environment while fostering compliance and efficiency in the bunkering sector.