Possible Solutions

Upgrading the ships that pass along the St. Lawrence would substantially reduce pollution rates. Modern ships are fitted with wastewater recovery and treatment systems.

Newer bulk carriers have improved cargo handling systems that cut down on dust and reduce cargo residue. Maritime terminals are also upgrading their facilities to reduce pollution.

Lake Saint-Pierre's shallow water, just 3 m deep on average, makes it vulnerable to pollution. Toxic substances remain in the lake for a long time because the water outside the shipping channel is nearly stagnant.

In the year 2000, the maritime industry adopted a voluntary speed reduction initiative for commercial ships. This initiative is intended to reduce shoreline erosion caused by wave action. Over a nearly 25 km stretch in the vulnerable Sorel-Tracy / Varennes sector, ships are encouraged not to exceed a speed of 10 knots (18.5 km/h) when sailing upstream and 14 knots (25.9 km/h) when sailing downstream. Most pilots comply with these speed limits. In smaller channels, buoys have been placed to indicate speed limits for pleasure craft.

The aquatic environment of the Gulf of St. Lawrence also needs to be protected. Given the large number of ships that sail these waters, water quality could be adversely affected as pollutants build up over time. Certain contaminants can take a long time to degrade.

The Green Marine environmental certification program encourages participants to develop maritime practices that limit the amount of pollutants discharged into the water.