MARPOL 73/78 Annexes at a Glance

MARPOL 73/78 (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) is the primary international treaty developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to minimize pollution from ships and protect the marine environment.

* Annex I – Prevention of Oil Pollution

Regulates the prevention of oil pollution from machinery spaces and cargo operations. It requires equipment such as the Oily Water Separator (OWS), Oil Record Book, and procedures for handling oily residues.

* Annex II – Control of Pollution by Noxious Liquid Substances in Bulk

Covers the transport and discharge of hazardous liquid chemicals carried in bulk. It classifies substances based on their environmental hazards and sets strict discharge standards.

* Annex III – Prevention of Pollution by Harmful Substances in Packaged Form

Establishes requirements for the safe packaging, marking, labeling, documentation, stowage, and handling of harmful substances transported in packaged form.

* Annex IV – Prevention of Sewage Pollution

Regulates the discharge of sewage from ships. It requires approved sewage treatment plants, holding tanks, or controlled discharge to protect marine ecosystems.

* Annex V – Prevention of Garbage Pollution

Prohibits or restricts the discharge of garbage into the sea. It includes regulations for plastics, food waste, cargo residues, and mandates the use of a Garbage Management Plan and Garbage Record Book.

* Annex VI – Prevention of Air Pollution

Controls air emissions from ships, including sulfur oxides (SOₓ), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), ozone-depleting substances, and greenhouse gas emissions. It also promotes energy-efficient ship operations.

MARPOL 73/78 provides a comprehensive framework to prevent pollution from ships by regulating oil, chemicals, packaged harmful substances, sewage, garbage, and air emissions. Compliance with all six annexes is essential for protecting the marine environment, ensuring safe shipping operations, and promoting sustainable maritime transport.

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