MARPOLVerträge

MARPOLVerträge, or MARPOL Conventions, refers to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 1973 and brought into force in 1983. It is the principal international agreement aimed at preventing and combating pollution of the marine environment by ships. MARPOL is a technical convention that covers the prevention of pollution by oil, noxious liquid substances in bulk, harmful substances in packaged form, sewage, garbage, and air pollution.

The convention is divided into six annexes, each dealing with a specific type of pollution. Annex I prohibits and regulates the discharge of oil and oily mixtures from ships. Annex II deals with the control of pollution by noxious liquid substances carried in bulk. Annex III addresses the prevention of pollution by harmful substances carried by sea in packaged forms. Annex IV regulates the discharge of sewage into the sea. Annex V covers the prevention of pollution by garbage from ships. Annex VI sets out regulations to control air pollution from ships, including emissions of sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and ozone-depleting substances.

MARPOLVerträge requires ships to be designed, equipped, and operated in accordance with its provisions. It also mandates the establishment of port reception facilities for the disposal of ship-generated waste. Compliance is monitored through inspections and certification. Amendments to the convention are adopted periodically to address new challenges and advancements in maritime technology and environmental protection. MARPOLVerträge is considered a cornerstone of international efforts to protect the oceans from shipping-related pollution.