The Vessel General Permit (VGP) is a permit issued by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that regulates discharges from commercial vessels into navigable waters of the United States. The VGP applies to all commercial vessels over 79 feet in length that operate in US waters, including foreign vessels.
The VGP was first issued in 2008 and was last updated in 2013. The permit establishes discharge limits for a range of pollutants, including oil, grease, sewage, and chemicals, and requires vessels to implement best management practices to minimize their environmental impact.
Under the VGP, vessel operators are required to develop and implement an environmental management plan that includes procedures for monitoring and reporting discharges, maintaining equipment, and responding to spills and other environmental incidents.
The VGP also requires vessels to obtain and maintain a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit, which is issued by the EPA or an authorized state agency. The NPDES permit authorizes vessels to discharge certain types of pollutants into US waters, subject to compliance with the VGP and other applicable regulations.
Overall, the VGP is an important regulatory tool for protecting the environment and promoting sustainable shipping practices in the United States. It aims to reduce the environmental impact of commercial vessels and promote compliance with environmental regulations and best practices.
Shipyards and Service Providers for Vessel General Permit (VGP) on trusteddocks.com
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