Legal Examination of the International Maritime Organization's Approaches to Environmental Protection

Abstract

The protection of the environment, including marine ecosystems, has gained increasing significance. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is one of the most important international organizations related to maritime affairs, which has engaged in the formulation of multiple conventions and protocols to achieve its objectives. The role of this international organization in the realm of environmental protection is a critical subject that has been relatively underexplored. The fundamental question examined in this context is: what legislative measures has the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted in recent years regarding environmental protection? This study employs a descriptive-analytical methodology and utilizes library research to address the aforementioned inquiry. The findings of this research indicate that the IMO has initiated the drafting and establishment of numerous conventions and protocols aimed at environmental protection. The recent resolutions and approaches of the International Maritime Organization concerning ship-related pollution, waste management, and plastic waste include conventions and protocols for controlling harmful anti-fouling systems on vessels, managing ballast water and sediment control, and ensuring the safe and environmentally friendly recycling of ships. Additional measures include the establishment of an international fund for compensation for oil pollution damage, including regulations about claims processing, efforts to establish liability and compensation for damages associated with the transport of hazardous and toxic materials, and the institution of civil liability for oil pollution damage from vessels. The formulation of requirements concerning the removal and disposal of sunken vessels represents key new approaches taken by the International Maritime Organization regarding damages caused by marine pollution.