Shipping is a major contributor of noxious emissions to the atmosphere, particularly sulphur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. These affect both human health and the environment. Passing this bill will enable us to reduce these emissions and implement greenhouse gas emission reduction measures. It does this by aligning our domestic legislation under the Maritime Transport Act 1994 with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, MARPOL annex VI. New Zealand's accession to MARPOL annex VI will also strengthen New Zealand's ability to play a credible role in negotiations at the International Maritime Organization to both push for global ambition and improve New Zealand's ability to protect its trade and economic interests.