MARPOL, the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, sets global standards to minimize marine pollution from shipping. The convention is divided into six annexes, each addressing specific types of pollutants:

Annex I – Oil Pollution: Regulates the discharge of oil and oily mixtures from ships, including operational and accidental oil spills. It mandates oil discharge monitoring and containment measures.

Annex II – Noxious Liquid Substances: Covers the control of pollution by harmful liquid substances carried in bulk, requiring proper documentation, handling, and discharge restrictions.

Annex III – Harmful Substances in Packaged Form: Focuses on preventing marine pollution by packaged hazardous materials, including labeling, documentation, and stowage standards.

Annex IV – Sewage: Sets requirements for the treatment and discharge of sewage from ships, aiming to protect coastal and open waters from contamination.

Annex V – Garbage: Regulates the disposal of ship-generated waste, prohibiting dumping of plastics and controlling the discharge of other refuse to safeguard the marine environment.

Annex VI – Air Pollution: Limits emissions from ships, including sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and ozone-depleting substances, promoting cleaner shipping fuels and engine technologies.