International catering waste

Catering waste from vessels arriving at ports is subject to certain controls and restrictions.

If it is mixed with other waste, the whole amount must be dealt with as international catering waste. This waste must be transported direct to an approved disposal site in a dedicated container that is covered and leak proof.

There is information on the handling and disposal of international catering waste  on the Association of Port Health Authorities (APHA) website and GOV.UK has guidance on the handling and disposal of international catering waste.

The London Port Health Authority ports at London Gateway, Thamesport, Tilbury and Sheerness have Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) approved facilities for the reception of this waste.