The Fourth R & D Forum on Hazardous, Noxious Substances (HNS) in the Marine Environment,
organized in conjunction with Interspill 2009, will collectively present a week
of organized sessions and events dedicated to working together for the
protection of the marine environment. This will take an in-depth scientific,
technical and legal look at the improvements already achieved and the
challenges that remain, and will define orientations for new developments.
The Forum will provide a platform for direct communication amongst senior
researchers and Research and Development managers from recognised institutions
around the world to promote and encourage co-operative activities including
joint research, as well as to stimulate new ideas and research related to
preparedness and response to maritime incidents involving HNS. It will focus on
the main aspects of HNS in the environment, from impact assessment, to the
operational dimension of pollution combating techniques and equipment, as well
as on health and safety issues. Compliance with and enforcement of
international legislation related to HNS will be also analyzed.
It is anticipated that the Forum would bring together up to 300 delegates from
member countries, other UN agencies, inter-Governmental agencies,
non-governmental organisations and research institutions, in addition to
providing an opportunity for participants to attend other events related to oil
spill response, scheduled as part of Interspill 2009.
The International Maritime Organization’s Fourth R&D Forum
on Hazardous, Noxious Substances (HNS) in the Marine Environment
