MARPOL

The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution of Ships (MARPOL), 1973 as modified by the 1978 Protocol is the main international convention covering prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes and governs the design and equipment of ships; establishes system of certificates and inspections; requires states to provide reception facilities for the disposal of oily waste and chemicals. It combines two treaties adopted in 1973 and 1978 respectively and updated by amendments through the years. MARPOL currently includes 6 technical Annexes dealing with oil, noxious liquid substances, harmful substances, sewage, garbage, and air pollution, respectively.