The Finnish Port Association has published a manual on the reception of sanitary wastewater. 

 It is targeted at all ports and operators, and aims to facilitate the planning and practical implementation of ship waste management. This is important for the Baltic Sea.

“We’ve long been involved in the Baltic Sea Action Group’s activities to promote responsible shipping. Continuous efforts are being made to raise awareness of the fact that the Baltic Sea is particularly sensitive, and that ships can leave their wastewater at port for no extra charge. Ships will pay a wastewater fee in any case. Too few people are aware of this. We hope that this manual will help,” says Kirsti Tarnanen-Sariola, Deputy Director of the Finnish Port Association.

The manual uses practical examples to illustrate the steps involved in receiving sewage: identifying vessel requirements, organising reception, and charging for sanitary wastewater. It provides material for both passenger ports connected to sewers and cargo ports that use mobile collection services. 

It’s important for all parties in the chain to know what the others are doing.

It also describes the roles played by each of the parties involved.

“It’s important for all parties in the chain to know what the others are doing. This leads to smoother processes and more efficient exchange of information.”

The manual was published in March and has now been sent to stakeholders.

“It’s been well received, although naturally we haven’t accumulated many user experiences yet.”

The manual has now been published in Finnish, and will be revised on the basis of user experiences. 

“An English version may also be published in the future.”