How do international regulations, such as MARPOL, govern the treatment and disposal of garbage from ships?
Answer (2)
MARPOL is an international agreement established to reduce pollution from ships, including garbage. It sets regulations on the types of waste that can be disposed of at sea and outlines the responsibilities of ship operators to manage waste properly. Enforcement of these regulations is the responsibility of the countries that are parties to MARPOL.
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MARPOL, short for the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, is a key international regulation that governs the treatment and disposal of garbage from ships. It was developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and entered into force in 1983. MARPOL aims to minimize pollution from ships and safeguard the marine environment.
What is MARPOL?
MARPOL is an international treaty designed to prevent and minimize pollution from ships, both accidental and that caused by routine operations. It includes regulations to control different types of pollution from ships, including oil, chemicals, harmful substances carried in packaged form, sewage, garbage, and air pollution.
How does MARPOL govern the treatment and disposal of garbage?
Annex V of MARPOL : The specific regulations regarding garbage disposal are detailed in Annex V. This annex came into effect in 1988 and deals with all kinds of food, domestic and operational waste generated during the normal operation of the ship. It prohibits the discharge of most types of garbage into the sea and encourages practices that reduce marine pollution.
Garbage Management Plan : Ships are required to implement a Garbage Management Plan, including procedures for collecting, storing, processing, and disposing of garbage. Every vessel of 400 gross tonnage and above and every ship certified to carry 15 persons or more must have such a plan.
Garbage Record Book : Ships of larger sizes are required to maintain a Garbage Record Book to log the details of each discharge or incineration operation.
Restrictions on Garbage Disposal : MARPOL places strict restrictions on what types of garbage can be disposed of at sea. For example, the discharge of plastics into the sea is completely prohibited, whereas certain other types of garbage can be discharged under specific conditions, such as being at a certain distance away from land.
Reception Facilities : Ports are required to provide adequate facilities for the reception of ship-generated waste, ensuring that ships can comply with the regulations without being forced to discharge waste improperly at sea.
Why is this important?
The regulation is essential for protecting marine habitats and wildlife from pollution and debris that can cause harm. By establishing comprehensive guidelines and procedures, MARPOL helps ensure that ships operate in an environmentally responsible manner.
Overall, MARPOL plays a crucial role in regulating the treatment and disposal of garbage from ships, ensuring the protection of marine ecosystems from the adverse effects of shipping activities.
