The resolution MEPC. 331 (76) adopted on 17 June 2021 and entering into force on 1-1-2023, sets new controls on paint substance cybutryne amending also model form of the Anti-fouling system certificate.

The amendments prohibit application or re-application of anti-fouling systems containing Cybutryne (CAS No. 28159-98-0) on all ships from 1 January 2023.

Moreover, all ships should remove or seal such anti-fouling systems at the next scheduled renewal of the anti-fouling system after 1 January 2023, but no later than 60 months following the last application of such anti-fouling system prior to 1 January 2023.

The requirement to remove or seal does not apply to:
1. fixed and floating platforms, FSUs and FPSOs constructed prior to 1 January 2023 and not dry-docked on or after that date;
2. ships not engaged in international voyages; and
3. ships of less than 400 GT engaged in international voyages, if accepted by the coastal State.

Ships in operation will need to comply with the requirement within the first anti-fouling renewal survey after 1 January 2023 and will be issued a new International AFS certificate which includes cybutryne-free compliance.

Ships under construction, which will be delivered after 1 January 2023, will need to be delivered as both TBT and cybutryne-free, and will be issued with an AFS certificate at the initial survey.
Therefore, shipping companies should not forget to obtain the “cybutryne-free statements” from the manufacturers in order to be furnished with an AFS certificate.

For more information regarding the new requirements, check Annex I & Annex 4 of the 2001 AFS Convention or MEPC. 331 (76) click here.

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