Polar waters of the Arctic and Antarctic are witnessing more maritime traffic as the ice caps are melting, allowing cargo-laden ships to traverse the once pristine waters. This is precisely why amendments to the International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (Polar Code) are going to come into effect starting in 2026, related to the safety of navigation and voyage planning.
Before examining the new changes, let us first understand what the IMO Polar Code is about.
The code is implemented through amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).
The Polar Code is divided into two parts: