Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act (AWPPA)

The Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act (AWPPA) aims to prevent pollution in Canadian Arctic waters. The AWPPA is a ‘zero discharge’ act, which states, “no person or ship shall deposit or permit the deposit of waste of any type in the Arctic waters.” The AWPPA describes offences and punishments; and outlines the powers that may be given to Pollution Prevention Officers so that they may enforce the Act.

The AWPPA has two key regulations, namely; the Arctic Shipping Pollution Prevention Regulations (ASPPR) , and the Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Regulations (AWPPR) .

Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Regulations (AWPPR)

The AWPPR applies to the deposit of waste in Arctic waters; or in any location on the mainland or islands of the Canadian Arctic; and the liability for such deposits. The AWPPR regulates the deposit of domestic and industrial waste in Arctic waters and on land in the Arctic, and the deposit of waste by ships in Arctic water. This Act also describes the limits of liability. The Marine Liability Act (MLA) extends north of 60° N . In the event of an inconsistency between the provisions of the AWPPA (or any regulation made pursuant to it) and the MLA ; the MLA prevails to the extent of the inconsistency.

Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act

Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Regulations