Regional co-operative activities on HNS preparedness and response in the Northwest Pacific region

Many kinds of the Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) were transported in bulk and its total volume was estimated over 62.9 million tonnes in 2007 in the Northwest Pacific region. Because HNS is also transported in bulk like oil, a major HNS spill incident has a potential to cause a huge amount of marine pollution and to damage human life and property. Recognizing the need for prompt and effective contingency plan in case of HNS spills, the four NOWPAP Members (the People's Republic of China, Japan, Republic of Korea and Russian Federation) have established their respective national laws and regulations and regional co-operation for prevention, preparedness and response to HNS spill incidents as well as oil incidents on sea.