https://www.osrl.com/media/news/project-tangaroa-global-effort-ppw

What is project Tangaroa?

Project Tangaroa is an international initiative focused on addressing the environmental threats posed by over 8,500 potentially polluting wrecks (PPWs) around the world, many of them remnants from World Wars I and II. These sunken vessels hold hazardous materials such as oil, chemicals, and unexploded munitions, posing serious risks to marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

The project launched in 2023 with a goal to develop a global framework for the assessment, intervention, and sharing of data on these wrecks, with the aim of mitigating pollution risks and preserving cultural heritage by 2028.

The global, toxic legacy of shipwrecks containing vast quantities of oil, munitions, and hazardous materials has been deteriorating. Many are becoming unstable, and some are leaking and causing harm to their surroundings now.

Many of these wrecks lie close to vulnerable coastal communities, vital fishing grounds, fragile ecosystems in protected areas, and world heritage sites. The harm to human well-being and the economic cost will be enormous.

The need for collective, decisive action has never been greater. As the world approaches the 100th anniversary of World War II in 2039, we have an opportunity and a responsibility to confront and resolve the enduring environmental legacy of conflict. Protecting both people and the planet must remain at the centre of our efforts.

Project objectives

Project Tangaroa’s primary objectives include:

• Developing a global framework for the near- and long-term assessment and management of PPWs.
• Creating international standards to guide assessment and remediation efforts.
• Enhancing research and development to identify technological gaps and improve intervention methods.
• Facilitating funding pathways to support proactive PPW management and ocean stewardship.
• Promoting stakeholder collaboration to improve cross-border cooperation and data sharing.
• Raising awareness to elevate public and political consciousness of PPW-related challenges.

Launch of the Malta Manifesto

As part of the growing momentum behind this project, the recent launch of the Malta Manifesto marks a critical turning point in the global response to legacy oil pollution.  As we move toward the significant anniversary of World War II, the international community must confront and resolve this enduring toxic legacy of conflict.

The Malta Manifesto is an urgent call to action—mobilising governments, industry leaders, civil society, UN agencies, and communities from the Pacific Islands to the Arctic—to marshal the resources and political will necessary to protect people and the planet from the consequences of oil pollution. This collaborative initiative underscores the shared responsibility and solidarity needed to secure a cleaner, safer future for all.

Funders and collaborators

Project Tangaroa is funded by Lloyd’s Register Foundation. It brings together leading organisations such as The Ocean Foundation, Waves Group, IUCN, UNESCO Ocean, ICOMOS, Major Projects Foundation, and Marinas Guardian, combining expertise in ocean health, marine salvage, conservation, and cultural heritage.

Workshops and key outcomes

The series of workshops have been central to advancing the project’s goals:

1. London, April 2024: Focused on governance and management of PPWs, setting the foundation for collaborative work.
2. Helsinki, September 2024: Explored technologies and methodologies for PPW assessment and intervention, identifying critical gaps and innovation needs.
3. Malta, March 2025: Addressed archival strategies and data sharing, ensuring that vital information is accessible for informed decision-making across stakeholder groups.

The workshops have led to the development of a comprehensive workplan for delivery by 2028, set agendas for upcoming workshops, and initiated collaborative statements between partners.

Next steps

Looking ahead, the project will focus on:

• Implementing workshop outcomes through pilot projects to test new frameworks and technologies.
• Expanding stakeholder engagement across governments, NGOs, industry, and local communities.
• Securing additional funding to scale proactive management and technological solutions.

Conclusion

Project Tangaroa represents a pivotal step forward in global ocean stewardship. By working together across borders and sectors, we can reduce pollution risks, protect marine environments, and safeguard cultural heritage for future generations.

OSRL is pleased to contribute to this essential work, bringing our expertise in spill preparedness and response to help shape a safer, more resilient marine world.