International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL Convention)

Definition

​The main international convention covering prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes. It was adopted in 1973 and entered into force in 1983.

Its biodiversity relevance stems from the highly detrimental effect that pollution can have on marine organisms, therefore by preventing the pollution of the sea the Convention contributes towards the maintenance of marine biodiversity.

International Maritime Organisation (IMO) 2014 1