What is recorded in the Garbage Record Book?

The Garbage Record Book is a critical document mandated by various maritime regulations, including MARPOL Annex V, which focuses on the management of garbage generated on ships. This book serves to log all garbage management activities carried out during voyages, ensuring compliance with environmental protection standards.

When a vessel operates, it generates various types of waste, including food waste, packaging materials, and other refuse. The record book requires entries for the types of garbage, the quantities disposed of, the methods of disposal (such as incineration or discharge into the sea within permissible limits), and the dates and times of these actions. This systematic documentation enables authorities to monitor a vessel's compliance with waste management protocols and promotes responsible disposal practices to prevent marine pollution.