When shipping containers spill, the impacts are immediate and long-term, with the consequences of these spills washing ashore and negatively impacting our environment, economy, and coastal communities. In 2016, 35 containers from Hanjin Seattle on the coast of Vancouver Island were lost at sea. In 2021, 109 containers were lost from the ZIM Kingston in the same region. But Canada did not have the equipment, resources, or an emergency response plan to react efficiently and effectively.
The lack of comprehensive coordination is still felt as items are recovered at shore, made up of toxic materials and chemicals that threaten marine ecosystems and wildlife. What would happen if another spill happened today while the government still has no plans in place to respond?
Extreme weathers from climate change only increase the risk of shipping container spills, making it essential for Canada to have a strategy prepared before the next disaster.
This is why I introduced Bill C-215, An Act to amend the Marine Liability Act (national strategy respecting pollution caused by shipping container spills), to require a strategy to ensure fast, effective responses when spills occur.
Preventing and responding to shipping container spills is vital to protecting Canada’s oceans.
Add your name to support a national strategy on shipping container spill pollution.