MARPOL at 50
Anniversary of the adoption of MARPOL Convention - 2 November 2023
'MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on'
The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) is the main international convention covering prevention of pollution of the marine environment by ships from operational or accidental causes.
The MARPOL Convention was adopted on 2 November 1973 at IMO. To mark the 50 years since MARPOL was adopted, IMO
World Maritime theme for 2023 is
'MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on'. The theme aims at celebrating the 50-year legacy of MARPOL as well as promoting a global conversation on how to move towards a sustainable maritime transport future.
'MARPOL at 50' Photography Exhibition
In November/December 2023, delegates to the IMO Assembly were invited to view a photography exhibition at IMO Headquarters in London displaying photos submitted by seafarers to mark the anniversary of the adoption of the MARPOL treaty.
| IMO staff: What does MARPOL mean to you? | |
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How does IMO’s marine protection treaty make a difference?
IMO's marine protection treaty, the MARPOL Convention, includes six technical Annexes. Click on the images below to learn how the treaty makes a difference in marine protection.
| How does IMO's marine protection treaty make a difference? Annexes I-VI | ||
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See all the visuals in the video below:
Background
'MARPOL at 50 – Our commitment goes on' promotes discussions on the next phase of IMO's work to further protect the planet and the oceans, is also linked to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These include affordable and clean energy (SDG 7); industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9); climate action and sustainable use of the oceans, seas and marine resources (SDGs 13 and 14); and the importance of partnerships and implementation to achieve these goals (SDG 17).
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim said, "A lot has changed in shipping in the 50 years since the MARPOL Convention was adopted on 2 November 1973, and IMO's commitment to protecting and preserving the marine environment has remained unwavering. The World Maritime Theme for 2023 will allow us to celebrate this legacy, while also underscoring our dedication to building on the existing foundations as we move towards a brighter future together."
Please read more about MARPOL here.