ITOPF

ITOPF, the International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation Limited, is a not-for-profit organization established in 1968 by tanker owners and operators to coordinate and disseminate information on oil pollution prevention and response. Based in London, United Kingdom, ITOPF provides independent guidance, technical resources, and expert advice to governments, industry, and other stakeholders dealing with oil spills at sea and offshore installations.

Its work encompasses advisory services, training, and the publication of guidance on preparedness, containment, and cleanup of oil spills. ITOPF maintains a global database of spill incidents and publishes technical fact sheets, guidance notes, and handbooks on spill behavior, response techniques, environmental effects, and risk assessment. The organization acts as a knowledge hub and offers 24/7 advisory assistance during incidents to support decision making and operations.

ITOPF collaborates with international bodies such as the International Maritime Organization and the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds, and it coordinates with industry groups and authorities to promote best practices in prevention and response. It is funded by tanker owners’ associations and individual members and operates as a not-for-profit entity. Its outputs—guidance, data resources, and training materials—are widely cited in policy development, preparedness planning, and real-world spill response efforts.