International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships 1973/78(MARPOL 73/78)

Entry into force: MARPOL 73/78 2 October 1983 (Korea signed on 23 October 1984)

General

The protection of marine environment is the responsibility of everyone. We must be conscious of the pollution threats to our waterways and oceans, and the serious effects that may result.

Korea depends almost exclusively on shipping to move its exports and imports.

Prevention of marine pollution has a high priority in our concerns.

Every ship in port is requested not to dump garbage, any oily mixture and sludge into the sea.

Marine Pollution Reporting

If you witness a vessel polluting, you may report the incident to "DAESAN VTS" on VHF channel 12 & 16 and "BORYEONG VTS" on channel 67 or to the Coast Guard via each local agent. Please provide relevant details of the incident such as when and where the incident occurred, the name of the vessel, type and extent of pollution and any other information which you may think pertinent.

While ships are permitted to dispose some types of waste at sea, there are strict requirements relating to the type of waste and the distance from land where the disposal may take place. All pollution sightings should still be reported and Authorities will determine whether the discharge/disposal is illegal.

• The following pollution activity should be reported: Any quantity of oil. If oil can be seen, then it is likely to be an illegal discharge. Oil includes waste oil, fuel oil, sludge, lube oil, additives.
  
  Any discharge from a ship involving washings of chemical or dry cargoes
  
  Any plastic material
  
  Garbage disposed of in the sea within 12nm of land (garbage includes food, paper, bottles etc)
  
  Taking bunker shall be made with special care.
  
  All polluting substances including garbage, food waste, sewage, oily mixture and sludge shall be kept on board while in port, or, if necessary, shall be discharged ashore in legal manner.
  
  Oil residue on decks may cause oil surface on the sea when it's rainy. Removing all oil residue on decks before entering is recommended.