PIMSAT COLLEGES INC

D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

Protection of the Marine Environment

(Term Paper)

Submitted by
Vincent Aldrian R. Ramos
BSMarE III – Alpha

Submitted to
Dr. Oman C. Monzales
Dean, College of Maritime Education

May 2024
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

Introduction

The oceans, which cover more than 70% of our planet's surface, are necessary for life

on Earth. They play a role in managing our climate while also providing food and work for a

lot of people. Unfortunately, these vital waters are under threat from pollution which may also

be caused by maritime activities. Ships and other maritime operations can pollute the ocean

with oil spills, chemical waste, garbage, sewage, and other pollutants. Protecting our marine

environments from these is crucial to maintaining the health of our planet and ensuring

resources for the foreseeable future.

The intricate and international nature of marine industry necessitate strong, coordinated

regulatory structures to reduce the adverse environmental impacts. The International Maritime

Organization (IMO) administers instruments such as the International Convention for the

Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), which establishes rules for ship emissions and

discharges with the goal of reducing pollution.

The course Protection of the Maritime Environment helped equip maritime students

with the skills needed to adhere to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution

from Ships, 1973 as modified by the Protocol of 1978 (MARPOL 73/78), regulations.

More specifically, this paper looks at the various Annexes of MARPOL 73/78, their

influence on national legislation, and the certifications that assure compliance with these

standards. It gives an extensive review of each Annex, demonstrating how international

standards are implemented into national legal structures. The discussion emphasizes the role

of policy in protecting the marine environment.

 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

I. MARPOL 73/78

MARPOL 73/78 plays an important role in establishing international guidelines for

combating marine pollution. It serves as the foundation for managing and mitigating the

environmental effects of both planned and unintentional ship discharges. The convention's six

technical annexes address numerous types of pollution caused by ships, such as oil spills,

hazardous liquid substances, packaged toxic materials, sewage, garbage disposal, and air

emissions. Together, these annexes contribute to the common objective of minimizing marine

pollution.

A. History

The MARPOL Convention, originating from the International Maritime Organization

(IMO), saw its inception on November 2, 1973. A crucial event prompting further development

was the series of tanker accidents occurring between 1976 and 1977. In response, the Protocol

of 1978 emerged, effectively integrating the original 1973 MARPOL Convention as it hadn't

yet become operational. This amalgamation of protocols became enforceable on October 2,

1983.

Subsequent to these foundational protocols, the evolution of MARPOL continued with

significant amendments. In 1997, another Protocol was introduced to modify the Convention,

notably introducing a new Annex VI. This addition, which addressed emerging concerns, was

ratified, and became effective on May 19, 2005. Over the years, MARPOL has undergone

periodic updates through various amendments, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance maritime

environmental protection.

By January 2018, a notable 156 states had become parties to this convention,

encompassing a staggering 99.42% of the global shipping tonnage. This extensive ratification
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

underscores a unified global dedication to combatting marine pollution by adhering to the

MARPOL standards.

The jurisdiction of MARPOL 73/78 extends to all vessels registered under the flags of

nations that are signatories to the convention, irrespective of their operational routes. It is the

duty of member nations to ensure compliance with the convention's stipulations for vessels

registered under their national ship registries.

B. Importance

MARPOL 73/78 has implications in reducing the environmental effect of shipping

operations and encouraging sustainable maritime practices. By addressing a wide range of

pollution issues, it helps protect marine ecosystems, conserve biodiversity, and preserve coastal

communities across the world. MARPOL 73/78's enforcement means assure compliance

through flag state responsibility and port state control, which increases ship operators'

accountability. Certificates of conformity with regulations demonstrate the convention's

commitment to maintaining environmental standards and developing a culture of responsible

marine management.

MARPOL Annex I place a strong emphasis on oil pollution control. Stringent rules

require new boats to include oil discharge monitoring systems and double hulls, which

considerably reduces the environmental impact of oil spills. Annex II covers the management

of toxic liquid chemicals, lowering the danger of chemical pollution in marine waters. Annexes

IV and V address sewage and garbage management, respectively, and require ships to establish

treatment systems and waste disposal plans. These regulations protect not just water quality,

but also marine life from harmful pollution. Finally, Annex VI regulates air emissions, forcing
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

the use of cleaner fuels and emission reduction technology to reduce atmospheric pollution

from shipping activities.

II. Sources of Pollution under MARPOL 73/78 and Their Impacts

MARPOL 73/78 addresses various sources of pollution through its annexes, stipulating

measures for the prevention of each type. The primary sources of pollution under MARPOL

73/78 include oil, NO2ious liquid substances, harmful substances in packaged form, sewage,

garbage, and air emissions. Each type of pollution has specific regulations and significant

environmental impacts.

1. Oil Pollution

Oil pollution primarily arises from operational discharges during cargo

operations, accidental spills during incidents such as groundings or collisions, and

routine discharges from machinery space bilges. The impacts of oil pollution are severe

and multifaceted:

• Marine Life: Oil coats the feathers of seabirds and the fur of marine mammals,

reducing their insulation and buoyancy, leading to hypothermia, drowning, or

ingestion of toxic substances during grooming.

• Habitat Destruction: Oil slicks can smother marine habitats, including coral

reefs and mangroves, causing long-term ecological damage.

• Human Health: Coastal communities dependent on marine resources face

health issues from consuming contaminated seafood.

 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

• Economic Losses: Tourism and fishing industries suffer significant economic

losses due to oil spills, affecting livelihoods and local economies.

2. NO2ious Liquid Substances

NO2ious liquid substances, as defined in MARPOL Annex II, are primarily

discharged from cargo tank washings and residual tank substances after unloading. The

impacts of NLS on the marine environment are profound:

• Toxicity: Many NLS are highly toxic to marine organisms, leading to lethal and

sub-lethal effects, including reproductive issues and growth abnormalities.

• Bioaccumulation: Certain NLS can accumulate in the food chain, posing risks

to higher trophic levels, including humans.

• Habitat Damage: These substances can damage delicate marine ecosystems,

such as coral reefs and estuarine areas, disrupting ecological balance.

3. Harmful Substances in Packaged Form

Harmful substances in packaged form are released through leakage from

containers during shipping accidents and improper handling and storage leading to

container breaches. The impacts of these substances include:

• Direct Toxicity: These substances can be highly toxic, causing immediate harm

to marine life.

• Long-Term Pollution: Persistent chemicals can remain in the marine

environment for extended periods, causing prolonged damage.

• Human Health Risks: Contaminated seafood and coastal environments can

affect human health, particularly in regions dependent on marine resources.

 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

4. Sewage

Sewage pollution originates from discharges from shipboard sewage treatment

plants and the direct discharge of untreated sewage from vessels. The environmental

impacts of sewage pollution include:

• Eutrophication: Nutrient-rich sewage can lead to algal blooms, depleting

oxygen in the water and causing dead zones where marine life cannot survive.

• Pathogens: Sewage can introduce harmful bacteria and viruses into the marine

environment, posing risks to both marine organisms and human health.

• Aesthetic Damage: The presence of sewage degrades the aesthetic quality of

marine and coastal environments, negatively affecting tourism and recreational

activities.

5. Garbage

Garbage pollution results from operational discharges from ships, including

food waste, plastics, and other refuse, as well as the accidental loss of fishing gear and

other equipment. The impacts of garbage pollution are significant:

• Marine Debris: Non-biodegradable materials, especially plastics, persist in the

marine environment, causing entanglement, ingestion, and physical harm to

marine life.

• Microplastics: Breakdown of larger plastic items into microplastics leads to

ingestion by a wide range of marine organisms, entering the food web and

potentially affecting human health.

• Habitat Degradation: Accumulation of garbage on beaches and in coastal

waters degrades habitats, impacting both wildlife and human communities.

 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

6. Air Pollution

Air emissions from ships include sulfur oxides (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NO2),

carbon dioxide (CO2), and particulate matter (PM), as well as volatile organic

compounds (VOCs) from cargo handling. These emissions significantly affect the

environment:

• Air Quality: Emissions contribute to air pollution, affecting coastal and port

cities' air quality, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular issues in humans.

• Climate Change: CO2 emissions from ships contribute to global greenhouse

gas emissions, exacerbating climate change and its associated impacts, such as

sea-level rise and extreme weather events.

• Acidification: SO2 and NO2 emissions can lead to acid rain, affecting

terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, including soil and water chemistry.

III. Overview of MARPOL 73/78 Annexes

Through its annexes, the convention addresses a wide range of pollutants, including oil,

hazardous substances, sewage, garbage, and air emissions. By establishing uniform regulations

for all international routes, MARPOL promotes consistency and responsibility across states,

enabling a coordinated effort to address maritime pollution.

A. Annex I: Prevention of Pollution by Oil

MARPOL Annex I sets rules to prevent oil spills from ships, which are vital for

safeguarding the marine environment. Following these rules is not just a legal requirement but
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

also ensures responsible maritime practices. Ship operators, especially those with oil tankers

or larger ships, must adhere to these regulations to obtain the International Oil Pollution

Prevention Certificate. This certificate confirms that the ship has undergone necessary surveys

as per MARPOL Annex I.

The regulations cover two main areas: machinery spaces of all ships and cargo areas of

oil tankers. For machinery spaces, rules include monitoring and controlling oily bilge water

discharge, maintaining Oil Record Books Part 1 (ORB1), proper disposal of waste oil sludge,

and following Special Area restrictions. Ships must also have Shipboard Oil Pollution

Emergency Plans (SOPEP). Oil tankers have specific requirements related to construction,

monitoring systems, tank provisions, and tank washing discharge. Discharging oily mixtures

into the sea is generally prohibited, except under specific conditions such as meeting oil content

limits and using oil filtering equipment.

In Special Areas, stricter conditions apply, including the use of oil filtering equipment with

alarm systems and automatic stopping devices. Part A of MARPOL Annex I prohibits oil

discharge in the Antarctic area to protect sensitive environments. Ships must maintain ORB1

meticulously, kept onboard and accessible for inspection for at least three years from the last

entry.

B. Annex II: Control of Pollution by NO2ious Liquid Substances in Bulk

MARPOL Annex II is crucial for regulating the safe transport of harmful substances by

ships. Its significance lies in the detailed categorization of these substances, ranging from

Category X denoting major hazards, through Category Y indicating moderate risks, to Category

Z representing the least hazardous materials. This categorization forms the basis for imposing
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

stringent regulations on ships carrying such substances, mandating thorough surveys,

inspections, and certification procedures to ensure compliance with Annex II standards.

These standards encompass a spectrum of requirements, including those pertaining to

the design, construction, and equipment of vessels. Provisions for specialized features such as

slop tanks, unloading arrangements, and advanced pumping and piping systems are integral to

the safe handling and containment of hazardous cargoes. Onboard monitoring and control

systems are essential to promptly identify and address any leaks or spills during cargo

operations, minimizing the risk of environmental contamination.

The enforcement of Annex II standards is a shared responsibility between flag states

and port states. Port states play a critical role in conducting inspections, monitoring vessel

activities, and implementing necessary enforcement measures to uphold compliance with

regulatory requirements. Furthermore, ships are obligated to develop comprehensive

emergency response plans and ensure the availability of trained personnel to manage hazardous

spill incidents effectively. Timely reporting and decisive action are imperative to mitigate the

potential environmental impact in the event of an incident. Moreover, the provision of

appropriate reception facilities for the acceptance of residues from NO2ious liquid substances

is essential for maintaining environmentally sound practices in the maritime sector. These

facilities enable ships to discharge their residues in a safe and lawful manner, contributing to

the overall goal of minimizing environmental harm.

C. Annex III: Prevention of Pollution by Harmful Substances Carried by Sea in

Packaged Form

If the transport of hazardous substances via ships in packaged form are not properly

managed during maritime transit, these substances can cause extensive environmental harm.
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

MARPOL Annex III outlines stringent regulations to address this issue, encompassing aspects

such as packaging, labeling, documentation, stowage, quantity limits, exceptions, and Port

State control on operational requirements.

These regulations are applicable to all ships transporting packaged hazardous

substances, irrespective of their size or type, with the aim of ensuring the safe conveyance of

such materials and preventing marine pollution. It is imperative for ships to use appropriate

packaging materials tailored to the specific nature of the substance being transported to prevent

leaks or spills effectively during transit. Furthermore, accurate marking and labeling are

essential for identifying cargo types and potential hazards. Proper documentation must also be

provided to identify the cargo and ensure compliance with relevant regulations, including

technical names, packaging certificates, and handling instructions. Additionally, packages

must be stowed securely to safeguard the safety of everyone onboard. Regarding quantity,

restrictions may apply based on factors such as ship size, construction, equipment, packaging,

and substance characteristics. Certain exceptions allow for the disposal of hazardous

substances in packaged form only if essential for ship safety or saving lives. Regulations are in

place to manage leakages, considering substance properties, without compromising ship and

crew safety. In foreign ports, authorized officers have the authority to inspect ships suspected

of non-compliance with pollution prevention procedures. If compliance issues are identified,

the ship may be detained until adherence is ensured.

D. Annex IV: Prevention of Pollution by Sewage from Ships

MARPOL Annex IV is specifically aimed at combating sewage pollution coming from

ships. Its provisions play a pivotal role in protecting marine ecosystems worldwide by curbing

sewage pollution. Among its core mandates is the installation of sewage treatment facilities
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

aboard ships, ensuring adherence to stringent standards outlined in resolutions like MEPC.2

(VI), MEPC.159(55), and MEPC.227(64), which vary based on installation dates. These

standards meticulously delineate guidelines for implementing effluent standards and

conducting performance evaluations, guaranteeing that sewage discharged from vessels meets

prescribed quality thresholds before entering marine environments. Moreover, MARPOL

Annex IV regulates the discharge of sewage from ships, generally prohibiting the release of

untreated sewage except under specific circumstances. For instance, treated sewage may only

be discharged at a minimum distance of 3 nautical miles from the nearest land, whereas

untreated sewage must be released no closer than 12 nautical miles from shore. Additionally,

the discharge of sewage from holding tanks during transit must be executed at a controlled rate,

not less than 4 knots, to mitigate its impact on marine ecosystems.

Special provisions are also established for regions harboring sensitive marine

ecosystems, such as the Baltic Sea, as delineated in Resolution MEPC.200(62) from January

2013. These regulations impose more stringent requirements to shield vulnerable marine

environments from pollution. Furthermore, MARPOL Annex IV addresses the management of

grey water, encompassing wastewater from sinks, showers, and other onboard sources. Similar

to sewage, grey water must undergo treatment processes to meet specified standards before

being discharged into the marine environment.

E. Annex V: Prevention of Pollution by Garbage from Ships

MARPOL Annex V stands as a crucial framework aimed at tackling the pressing issue

of waste disposal at sea, advocating for stringent regulations and comprehensive measures to

protect marine ecosystems. It defines "garbage" to encompass a wide range of items, including
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

food waste, domestic waste, operational waste, plastics, cargo residues, incinerator ashes,

cooking oil, fishing gear, and animal carcasses.

The Annex's primary objectives revolve around imposing strict limitations on the

discharge of garbage from ships, particularly in coastal waters and designated "Special Areas"

vital for environmental preservation. To facilitate compliance, MARPOL Annex V mandates

the development and implementation of Garbage Management Plans onboard ships. These

plans detail procedures for garbage collection, storage, processing, and discharge, utilizing

onboard equipment like compactors and incinerators. Additionally, the Annex introduces the

requirement for Garbage Record Books, comprehensive logs documenting garbage discharges.

These records, divided into Part I and Part II, categorize waste materials and provide detailed

accounts of disposal activities in line with regulations. By maintaining meticulous records,

ships can demonstrate compliance, enhance transparency, and support monitoring and

enforcement efforts. Moreover, MARPOL Annex V mandates the display of placards onboard

ships, informing crew and passengers of garbage discharge regulations. These visual aids serve

to raise awareness and cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility within the maritime

community.

F. Annex VI: Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships

When addressing air pollution from ships at sea, MARPOL Annex VI has been devised

as a strategic framework. This plan mandates that ships limit emissions of harmful substances

such as sulfur and nitrogen oxides while also regulating the discharge of pollutants from ship

chimneys, with the overarching aim of reducing pollution and promoting environmental

sustainability.
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

For sulfur oxide (SO2) emissions, ships are required to use fuel with significantly low

sulfur levels, adhering to global limits of 0.50% and 0.10% in specific regions since January 1,

2020. Alternatively, vessels can install specialized systems called scrubbers to cleanse exhaust

gases and mitigate sulfur emissions. In terms of nitrogen oxide (NO 2) emissions, MARPOL

Annex VI imposes stringent restrictions on diesel engines based on their construction dates and

sizes. Ships built after January 1, 2016, must comply with the most rigorous Tier III standards,

targeting an 80% reduction in NO2 emissions compared to Tier I levels. Furthermore, the

Annex addresses particulate matter emissions from ship engines, implementing limits to

minimize associated health risks and enhance air quality in coastal and port areas. While

primarily focusing on conventional air pollutants, MARPOL Annex VI also endeavors to

address greenhouse gas emissions from shipping. The IMO aims to reduce total greenhouse

gas emissions from international shipping by at least 50% by 2050, relative to 2008 levels, with

the eventual goal of elimination. Additionally, MARPOL Annex VI promotes energy

efficiency within the shipping industry through two key mechanisms: the Energy Efficiency

Design Index (EEDI) and the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP). The EEDI

establishes minimum efficiency standards for new ships based on size and type, while the

SEEMP provides a framework for shipowners and operators to adopt measures that enhance

energy efficiency throughout a vessel's lifecycle.

Flag states are tasked with overseeing compliance of ships registered under their

jurisdiction with Annex VI regulations, while port states conduct inspections to verify

adherence to these requirements. Non-compliance may result in consequences such as fines,

vessel detentions, or legal actions against responsible parties.

 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

IV. Certifications

To guarantee that ships follow the rules specified in the agreement, certification and

adherence to MARPOL 73/78 are essential. A vessel must carry the following main certificates

that prove compliance with MARPOL Annexes:

1. International Oil Pollution Prevention Certificate (IOPP)

Ships that comply with the requirements outlined in MARPOL Annex I are

awarded this certificate, which is primarily intended to reduce oil pollution resulting

from ships. It confirms that the ship is equipped and has the necessary safeguards

in place to prevent oil contamination. Systems for monitoring and managing oil

outflow, separated ballast tanks, and oil filtering systems are a few examples.

2. International Sewage Pollution Prevention Certificate (ISPP):

This is given to vessels in compliance with the guidelines included in

MARPOL Annex IV, which focuses on preventing ship-borne sewage pollution. In

order to ensure that wastewater is properly treated before being released into the sea

and meets established requirements for contaminants and pathogens, it certifies the

installation of sewage treatment systems onboard.

3. International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate (IAPP):

This is given to ships that fulfill the standards outlined in MARPOL Annex

VI, which deals with ship-related air pollution. This certificate attests to the

application of controls over the emission of air pollutants, including particulate

matter, nitrogen oxides (NO2), and sulfur oxides (SO2), in accordance with the

emission limits and guidelines specified in the Annex.

 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

4. International Pollution Prevention Certificate for the Carriage of NO2ious

Liquid Substances (NLS):

This is granted to vessels involved in the bulk transportation of hazardous

materials, if they comply with the guidelines outlined in MARPOL Annex II. It

confirms the existence of necessary tools, procedures, and setups within to avoid

pollution from the movement and release of hazardous materials. This covers the

accessibility of emergency response protocols and cargo containment systems.

V. Recent Updates to MARPOL 73/78

The MARPOL 73/78 convention continually evolves to address the dynamic maritime

industry and growing environmental concerns. Recent amendments and strategic focus areas

ensure it remains effective in protecting marine ecosystems.

1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction

To combat climate change, MARPOL introduced mandatory measures in 2011,

including the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for new ships and the Ship Energy

Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) for all ships. In 2018, the IMO adopted a strategy

to reduce GHG emissions from international shipping by 50% by 2050 compared to 2008

levels, emphasizing energy efficiency, low-carbon fuels, and long-term zero-carbon

solutions.

2. Stricter Sulfur Cap Regulations

The 2020 global sulfur cap reduction from 3.50% to 0.50% under Annex VI

significantly reduces sulfur oxide (SO2) emissions, improving air quality. Ships comply by
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

using low-sulfur fuels, installing exhaust gas cleaning systems (scrubbers), or adopting

alternative fuels like liquefied natural gas (LNG).

3. Ballast Water Management

The Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention, aligned with MARPOL, aims

to prevent invasive species' spread through ballast water discharge. Ships must implement

a Ballast Water Management Plan, maintain a Ballast Water Record Book, and install

treatment systems to meet biological standards.

VI. Future Directions

Future advancements in monitoring, enforcement, international cooperation, alternative

fuels, and holistic management will ensure MARPOL continues to protect the marine

environment and support sustainable shipping. As the maritime industry faces 21st-century

challenges, MARPOL 73/78 will play a crucial role in shaping a cleaner, safer, and more

sustainable future for our oceans.

1. Enhanced Monitoring Technologies

Future implementation will benefit from advancements in satellite tracking, remote

sensing, and automated reporting systems, improving detection of non-compliance and

illegal discharges. Real-time data on ship emissions and operations will enhance regulatory

oversight.

2. Stronger Penalties for Non-Compliance

Stricter enforcement measures, including higher fines, criminal charges, and

certification suspensions, are essential to deter violations. International cooperation and

 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

harmonized enforcement practices among member states will address compliance

disparities.

3. Increased International Cooperation

Strengthening partnerships among IMO member states, regional organizations, and

stakeholders will promote uniform application of MARPOL provisions. Collaborative

efforts will support capacity-building in developing countries, improving their enforcement

capabilities.

4. Adoption of Alternative Fuels and Technologies

The transition to zero-carbon fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia, along with

renewable energy sources like wind and solar power, is crucial. Research in battery storage,

fuel cells, and hybrid propulsion systems will reduce shipping's environmental impact.

5. Holistic Environmental Management

Future MARPOL amendments may integrate broader sustainability considerations,

addressing marine plastic pollution, underwater noise pollution, and biodiversity impacts.

A comprehensive framework will enhance MARPOL's effectiveness in promoting

sustainable maritime practices.

VI. Implementation of MARPOL 73/78 into National Legal Structures (Philippines)

The process of integrating Philippine domestic laws with MARPOL standards is

intricate and involves the legal frameworks of both American Common Law and Spanish Civil

Law traditions. International marine laws are enforced by important organizations such as the

PCG and MARINA. With the backing of current laws like the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999,

the nation's 2018 membership to MARPOL Annex VI showed its dedication to international
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

standards for lowering ship-induced air pollution. A strong regulatory framework is necessary

to ensure efficient enforcement and compliance with international environmental standards.

Legislative measures are needed for integrating MARPOL into Philippine legislation, allowing

the transition to a sustainable "blue economy." The Philippines' status as a Flag State is

reinforced by the implementation, which covers both local and international vessels.

Cooperation across different sectors of the marine industry is facilitated by government

agencies and stakeholders consulting and coordinating with one another. As a result of

legislative action, regulatory enforcement, and stakeholder engagement, the integration of

MARPOL standards into Philippine legislation represents a strategic commitment to

environmental preservation and sustainable development.

 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

Conclusion

Engaging in discussions on MARPOL 73/78 has been crucial for me as a marine student

in developing the knowledge and understanding I need to follow this convention. The

MARPOL 73/78 Convention, formally known as the International Convention for the

Prevention of Pollution from Ships, has played a crucial role in shaping global maritime

environmental protection since its inception. This comprehensive international agreement

represents a significant commitment by the global maritime community to safeguard the marine

environment from pollution caused by operational and accidental discharges from ships.

Through its six annexes, which address different forms of marine pollution, MARPOL 73/78

has set forth stringent regulations and standards that have transformed maritime operations and

significantly reduced the environmental footprint of the shipping industry.

Through the discussions of MARPOL 73/78, I've gained a comprehensive grasp of the

regulations delineated in the convention, spanning various facets of pollution prevention from

ships. Specific regulations on oil pollution, managing hazardous substances, handling

hazardous packages safely, disposing of sewage, discarding of garbage properly, as well as

decreasing air pollution from ships are all covered by these regulations. This has made me more

environmentally sensitive because it has shown the significant effects that marine operations

have on ecosystems and society as a whole. I now understand how important it is to vigorously

adhere to MARPOL laws to reduce these negative impacts.

My preparedness for actual implementation has greatly benefited from my

comprehension of the specifics of management of pollutants, maintenance schedules, and

equipment performance. In the long run, I have seen the importance of lifelong learning and
 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

adaptability, understanding the changing nature of environmental issues and marine

regulations. To put it simply, the course has been invaluable to me as a marine student. It has

given me the information, abilities, and perspective I need to effectively navigate the regulatory

environment and promote sustainable maritime practices.

 PIMSAT COLLEGES INC
D A G U P A N C I T Y C A M P U S
McArthur Highway, Bolosan District, Dagupan City, Philippines
COLLEGE OF MARITIME EDUCATION

References

Amazonaws. (n.d.). House Bill No. 7515. https://hrep-website.s3.ap-southeast

1.amazonaws.com/legisdocs/basic_18/HB00662.pdf
American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). (2023). Guide for MARPOL (Publication No. 7).
Retrieved from https://ww2.eagle.org/en/rules-and-resources/abs-rules/abs-rules-
downloads.html
European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA). (2023). MARPOL Convention. Retrieved from
https://emsa.europa.eu/legislation-environment/marpol-convention.html
International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution From Ships (MARPOL). International
Maritime Organization. (n.d.).
https://www.imo.org/en/about/Conventions/Pages/International-Convention-for-the-
Prevention-of-Pollution-from-Ships-
(MARPOL).aspx#:~:text=The%20MARPOL%20Convention%20was%20adopted,Pr
otocol%20absorbed%20the%20parent%20Convention.
International Tanker Owners Pollution Federation (ITOPF). (2023). MARPOL 73/78 -
Summary of MARPOL. Retrieved from https://www.itopf.org/knowledge-
resources/documents-guides/document/marpol-7378-summary-of-marpol/
MARINA. (n.d.). MARPOL Annex VI and its entry into force. https://marina.gov.ph/wp-
content/uploads/2020/10/MARPOL-Annex-VI.pdf
Marine Insight. (2023). MARPOL Annexes - An Overview. Retrieved from
https://www.marineinsight.com/environment/marpol-annexes-overview/
MARPOL. Marpol - RINA.org. (n.d.).
https://www.rina.org/en/marpol#:~:text=The%20main%20certificates%20a%20vessel
,International%20Air%20Pollution%20Prevention%20Certificate)
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). (2023). MARPOL - An Introduction to
MARPOL 73/78. Retrieved from https://www.unep.org/resources/report/marpol-
introduction-marpol-7378