World Coatings Council Inc

Antifouling Coatings Committee (AFCC): The World Coatings Council monitors regulatory activities affecting marine coatings and active substances in countries and regions worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and countries in South America, Central America, and Asia. Membership in AFCC is open to all paint companies that manufacture antifouling coatings, as well as suppliers of active ingredients, biocides, or raw materials that are used in antifouling coatings.AFCC was formed to (1) monitor activity that impacts regulations governing the marketing and use of antifouling products, including activity that is undertaken by national governments, international organizations, NGOs, or research institutions; (2) exchange information about regulatory developments around the world; (3) agree on common industry positions; and (4) engage with relevant regulatory bodies to advocate for regulations and policies that accord with the membership's positions.WCC AFCC also engages on behalf of the global industry at the International Maritime Organization (IMO). WCC was granted NGO-accredited status at the IMO in 2007. The IMO is the United Nations' global standard-setting authority that regulates the safety, security, and environmental performance of international shipping and commerce, along with environmental issues particularly affecting the marine environment. Its regulatory reach extends to marine coatings. WCC AFCC participates as industry representatives and subject matter experts at various IMO meetings. WCC AFCC is currently focused on activities related to the IMO's AFS Convention, biofouling management, in-water cleaning standards, and marine plastic litter.

Transport of Dangerous Goods: To ensure consistency between regulatory systems worldwide, the United Nations (UN) established a Sub-Committee dedicated to developing appropriate harmonization regulations for the transport of dangerous goods. The UN Sub-Committee of Experts (SCE) on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (TDG) considers proposed changes to the UN Model Recommendations on TDG. The World Coatings Council is proactively engaged in UN efforts to harmonize the model regulations, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness for cross-border and multi-modal shipments of paint and allied products. WCC attends UN SCE TDG meetings to present proposals and advocate for reasonable hazmat transportation regulations on behalf of industry.