Diploma in Waste Management on Ships
Why this certificate program?
The Diploma in Waste Management on Vessels
This program offers comprehensive training for maritime professionals committed to sustainability. Learn to implement best practices and environmental regulations for the effective management of waste on board, minimizing the impact on the marine ecosystem. This program provides you with the tools to comply with international regulations, optimize recycling and treatment processes, and promote a culture of environmental responsibility on your vessel.
Key Benefits
- Up-to-date Knowledge: Master the latest MARPOL regulations and IMO guidelines on waste management.
- Practical Strategies: Learn to develop and implement efficient waste management plans tailored to different types of vessels.
- Cost Reduction: Optimize recycling and treatment processes to minimize the costs associated with waste management.
- Regulatory Compliance: Avoid penalties and ensure compliance with current environmental regulations.
- Networking: Connect with industry experts and share experiences with other professionals.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Diplomado
- Hours: 800 H
- Start date: 19-06-2026
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- Merchant Marine Professionals responsible for onboard environmental management, including captains, officers, and crew.
- HSEQ Managers in shipping companies seeking to implement sustainable practices and comply with current regulations.
- Environmental consultants and maritime auditors wishing to specialize in waste management on vessels.
- Port and maritime authority officials responsible for the supervision and control of waste management.
- Students and professionals interested in the maritime sector and environmental sustainability in the naval field.
Flexibility and Practical Application
Designed for busy professionals demanding: 24/7 accessible virtual platform, real case studies and practical tools for immediate implementation.
Objectives and competencies

Implement efficient waste management systems on board:
“Following MARPOL Annex V and local regulations, optimizing segregation, treatment and final disposal, minimizing environmental impact.”

Comply with current maritime environmental regulations:
“Manage waste, spills and emissions, minimizing environmental impact and reporting incidents according to protocol.”

Minimize the environmental impact of maritime operations:
Implement waste management practices (MARPOL) and optimize fuel consumption through efficient route planning and speed control.

Optimize the segregation and treatment of waste at the source:
Implement standardized waste classification protocols, train staff in their correct application, and establish a system for monitoring compliance and continuous improvement.

Promote a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility among the crew:
Implement onboard waste management practices, optimize energy and water consumption, and actively participate in the prevention of marine pollution.

Reduce waste generation through conscious consumption practices:
Prioritize reuse and recycling, learn about sustainable alternatives, and minimize the purchase of disposable products.
Curriculum - Modules
- Comprehensive Maritime Incident Management: protocols, roles, and chain of command for coordinated response
- Operational Planning and Execution: briefing, routes, weather windows, and go/no-go criteria
- Rapid Risk Assessment: criticality matrix, scene control, and decision-making under pressure
- Operational Communication: VHF/GMDSS, standardized reports, and inter-agency liaison
- Tactical Mobility and Safe Boarding: RHIB maneuvers, approach, mooring, and recovery
- Equipment and Technologies: PPE, signaling, satellite tracking, and field data logging
- Immediate Care of the Affected: primary assessment, hypothermia, trauma, and stabilization for evacuation
- Adverse Environmental Conditions: swell, Visibility, flows, and operational mitigation
Simulation and training: critical scenarios, use of VR/AR, and exercises with performance metrics
Documentation and continuous improvement: lessons learned, indicators (MTTA/MTTR), and SOP updates
- Introduction to the circular economy: principles and benefits in the maritime sector
- Environmental legal framework: national and international regulations on waste from ships (MARPOL, London Convention)
- Types of waste generated on ships: grey water, black water, hydrocarbon waste, plastics, etc.
- Waste management on board: segregation, temporary storage, and documentation
- Equipment and technologies for waste management: incinerators, compactors, oil/water separators
- Waste management plans: development, implementation, and monitoring on board
- Waste delivery in port: procedures, port receiving facilities (IRPs), and fees
- Preventing plastic pollution: strategies to reduce Consumption and improved onboard management
Environmental audits and certifications: compliance with regulations and standards (ISO 14001)
Good environmental practices: minimization, reuse, and recycling onboard
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- Introduction to the problem of marine debris: types, sources, and impacts.
- International and national legal framework: conventions, directives, and applicable legislation.
- Characterization of marine debris: sampling, analysis, and evaluation methodologies.
- Collection and cleanup technologies: barriers, specialized vessels, and environmental diving.
- Onshore management of collected waste: classification, treatment, recovery, and final disposal.
- Strategies for waste generation prevention: reduction at the source, and the circular economy.
- Port waste management plans: reception, treatment, and monitoring.
- Environmental awareness and education: campaigns, educational programs, and citizen participation.
- Environmental Impact Assessment: Methodologies and Application to Waste Management Projects.
- Environmental Audits and Regulatory Compliance: Preparation, Execution, and Continuous Improvement.
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- Introduction to marine debris: sources, types, and impacts
- International and national legal framework: conventions, directives, and regulations
- Characterization of marine debris: sampling, analysis, and classification
- Techniques for collection and cleaning of beaches and coasts: manual and mechanized
- Collection of waste at sea: ghost nets, microplastics
- Treatment and valorization of marine debris: recycling, composting, energy
- Waste management infrastructure: collection centers, treatment plants
- Circular economy and marine debris: sustainable business opportunities
- Marine debris management plans: design, implementation, and Monitoring
- Environmental audits and regulatory compliance: ISO 14001, EMAS
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- Introduction to MARPOL: Annexes and their scope in waste management
- MARPOL Annex V: Regulations for the prevention of pollution by garbage
- Types of waste generated on board: classification and specific handling
- Waste treatment equipment: incinerators, compactors, shredders
- Waste Management Plan: development, implementation, and maintenance
- Waste unloading procedures: ports and special areas
- Mandatory records: garbage logbook and associated documentation
- Best practices for minimizing waste at the source: purchasing and provisioning
- Crew training: awareness and responsibility Environmental
- Inspections and regulatory compliance: Port State Control and audits
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- System Architecture and Components: Structural design, materials, and subsystems (mechanical, electrical, electronic, and fluid) with selection and assembly criteria for marine environments
- Fundamentals and Principles of Operation: Physical and engineering foundations (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, electricity, control, and materials) that explain performance and operating limits
- Safety and Environmental (SHE): Risk analysis, PPE, LOTO, hazardous atmospheres, spill and waste management, and emergency response plans
- Applicable Regulations and Standards: IMO/ISO/IEC requirements and local regulations;
- Conformance criteria, certification, and best practices for operation and maintenance
- Inspection, testing, and diagnostics: Visual/dimensional inspection, functional testing, data analysis, and predictive techniques (vibration, thermography, fluid analysis) to identify root causes
- Preventive and predictive maintenance: Hourly/cycle/seasonal plans, lubrication, adjustments, calibrations, consumable replacement, post-service verification, and operational reliability
- Instrumentation, tools, and metrology: Measuring and testing equipment, diagnostic software, calibration and traceability; selection criteria, safe use, and storage
- Onboard integration and interfaces: Mechanical, electrical, fluid, and data compatibility; Sealing and watertightness, EMC/EMI, corrosion protection, and interoperability testing.
Quality, acceptance testing, and commissioning: process and materials control, FAT/SAT, bench and sea trials, go/no-go criteria, and evidence documentation.
Technical documentation and integrated practice: logs, checklists, reports, and a complete case study (safety ā diagnosis ā intervention ā verification ā report) applicable to any system.
- Introduction to the problem of marine litter: sources, types, and global distribution
- International and national legal framework: applicable conventions, directives, and regulations
- Impact of marine litter on marine ecosystems and human health
- Sampling and characterization methods of marine litter on beaches, in water columns, and in sediments
- Prevention strategies: source reduction, responsible consumption, and the circular economy
- Marine litter cleaning and collection techniques: manual, mechanized, and community-based
- Logistics and management of collected waste: transport, storage, and sorting
- Marine litter valorization: recycling, reuse, and energy conversion
- Evaluation of the effectiveness of waste management and minimization actions marine life
- Environmental awareness and education: campaigns, educational programs, and citizen participation
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Career opportunities
- Onboard Waste Manager: Responsible for the proper segregation, storage, and delivery of waste in ports.
- Maritime Environmental Consultant: Advising shipping companies on the implementation of waste management plans.
- Environmental Auditor: Verifying compliance with current regulations regarding waste management on vessels.
- Port Control Inspector: Supervising the proper management of waste on ships during inspections.
- Port Waste Treatment Plant Technician: Operation and maintenance of waste treatment facilities for waste generated by ships.
- Sustainability Manager in Shipping Companies: Development and implementation of strategies for the reduction and proper management of waste on board.
- Waste Management Trainer Maritime: Training maritime personnel in best practices for waste management.
Researcher in onboard waste treatment technologies: Development of new technologies for minimizing and treating waste on vessels.
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Admission requirements

Academic/professional profile:
Degree/Bachelor's degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering, or a related field; or proven professional experience in bridge/operations.

Language proficiency:
Recommended functional maritime English (SMCP) for simulations and technical materials.

Documentation:
Updated resume, copy of degree or seaman's book, ID card/passport, letter of motivation.

Technical requirements (for online):
Equipment with camera/microphone, stable connection, ā„ 24ā monitor recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admission process and dates

1. Online
application
(form + documents).

2. Academic review and interview
(profile/objectives/schedule compatibility).

3. Admission decision
(+ scholarship proposal if applicable).

4. Reservation of place
(deposit) and registration.

5. Induction
(access to campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and grants
- Regulatory Framework: Master the national and international legislation on marine and port waste management.
- Minimization Strategies: Learn to implement waste reduction and reuse plans on board.
- Treatment Technologies: Discover the latest innovations in waste processing on vessels and at terminals.
- Safe Handling: Implement protocols for the storage, transport, and final disposal of hazardous waste.
- Maritime Sustainability: Contribute to the protection of the marine environment through sustainable practices responsible.
Testimonials
This diploma program provided me with the necessary tools to implement a successful waste management system on my vessel. Thanks to the knowledge I gained about international regulations, best practices, and available technologies, we were able to significantly reduce our environmental footprint and optimize our onboard processes, even receiving recognition from the port authority for our sustainable practices.
This diploma program provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead the implementation of an environmental management system in my company, achieving a 20% reduction in our carbon footprint in just six months. Furthermore, the network of contacts I established during the program has opened doors to new collaborations and opportunities in the sustainability sector.
This diploma program provided me with the necessary tools to implement an efficient waste management system on my vessel. Thanks to the knowledge I gained, we significantly reduced our environmental footprint, complying with international regulations and optimizing our onboard resources. I have observed greater environmental awareness among the crew and an overall improvement in the ship’s operations.
This diploma program provided me with the necessary tools to implement an onboard waste management system, achieving a 30% reduction in waste generation and a 25% increase in the recycling rate across our fleet in just six months. Furthermore, the knowledge I gained enabled me to train the crew, improving environmental awareness and compliance with international regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Solid waste, wastewater, ballast water, oily and chemical waste.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Maritime sector.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3ā6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Introduction to Marine Debris: Types, Sources, and Global Distribution
- Legal and Regulatory Framework: International Conventions and National Legislation
- Environmental Impact: Effects on Marine Biodiversity and Coastal Ecosystems
- Beach and Seabed Collection and Cleaning Techniques
- Storage and Transportation Logistics: Collection Centers and Optimal Routes
- Separation and Classification Technologies: Material Identification and Quality
- Energy Recovery Processes: Incineration, Pyrolysis, and Gasification
- Mechanical and Chemical Recycling: Transformation into New Products and Materials
- Biodegradation and Composting: Treatment of Marine Organic Waste
- Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
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Request information
Complete the Application Form.
Attach your CV/degree certificate (if you have it to hand).
Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you would like the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
An academic advisor will contact you within 24ā48 hours to guide you through the admission process, scholarships, and compatibility with your professional schedule.
Faculty
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Eng. TomƔs Riera
Full Professor
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. SofĆa Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier BaƱuls
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor