When hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) transported by sea cause damage, the financial burden often extends beyond the directly involved parties. Public authorities, coastal communities, fisheries, ports, clean-up operations, and businesses without contractual ties to shipowners, charterers, carriers, or cargo receivers can all incur significant costs. Crucially, individuals and entities suffering losses from HNS cargoes are often left without recourse or compensation, highlighting a critical gap in existing maritime liability frameworks.

This article provides an explanation of the IMO treaty concerning hazardous and noxious cargo, known as the HNS Convention.

https://www.shippingandfreightresource.com/imo-treaty-on-hazardous-and-noxious-cargo/