MARPOLsopimusta

MARPOLsopimusta, officially the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, is a key international treaty developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) that aims to prevent and reduce pollution caused by ships. Adopted in 1973 and entering into force in 1978, MARPOL is a comprehensive instrument that addresses various forms of marine pollution, including oil, noxious liquid substances in bulk, harmful substances in packaged form, sewage, garbage, and air pollution.

The convention is divided into six technical annexes, each dealing with a specific source of pollution. Annex I prohibits and controls the discharge of oil from ships. Annex II regulates the discharge of noxious liquid substances carried in bulk. Annex III sets standards for the prevention of pollution by harmful substances carried by sea in packaged form. Annex IV addresses the discharge of sewage into the sea. Annex V deals with the prevention of pollution by garbage from ships. Annex VI, the most recent addition, focuses on preventing air pollution from ships, setting limits on sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions, and regulating ozone-depleting substances and greenhouse gases.

MARPOLsopimusta applies to all ships of 15 gross tonnage and above engaged in international voyages, with specific exemptions for certain types of vessels. Its effective implementation relies on flag states ensuring compliance and port states enforcing its provisions through inspections. MARPOL is a continually evolving convention, with amendments and updates regularly introduced to address emerging environmental concerns and technological advancements in the maritime industry.