China’s State Council has issued a new regulation covering the prevention and clearing up of marine pollution caused by vessels, reported Xinhua. It is set to take effect on 1 March 2010.

The regulation stipulates that transportation departments under the State Council should compile emergency plans to deal with pollution caused by ships or related activities. Marine management institutions should cooperate with other departments to improve monitoring and supervision of ships and the pollution that they cause.

Professional teams to deal with emergencies, specialised equipment and facilities should be organised, according to the regulation.

Official statistics reveal that 733 ship pollution accidents occurred between 1998 and 2008 in China’s coastal waters. The regulations will apply to all types shipping, except military.