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ASSESSMENT OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS INFLUENCING IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MARPOL CONVENTION (73/78) AND THEIR EFFECT ON ITS SUCCESS, A CASE STUDY OF THE NORTH SEA, UK
BY
THIS RESEARCH PROJECT IS SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF
April, 2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online
DECLARATION
DECLARATION BY CANDIDATE
I declare that this project is my original work and has not been submitted for a degree in any university. No part of this project may be produced without prior permission from the author and Liverpool John Moores University.
DATE……………………………..
DECLARATION BY SUPERVISOR
This research Proposal has been presented for examination with my approval as the University supervisor.
DATE……………………………
LECTURER
DEPARTMENT OF
SCHOOL OF
DEDICATION
This project study is dedicated to
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I thank
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DECLARATION…………………………………………………………………………….. (i)
DEDICATION………………………………………………………………………………. (ii)
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT…………………………………………………..……………… (iii)
ABSTRACT………………………………………………………………………………… (viii)
LIST OF FIGURES……… ………………………………………………………………. (vii)
CHAPTER ONE
1.0INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………………………1
1.1Background Information………………………………………………………………………1
1.2 Statement of the problem……………………………………………………………….…….3
1.3 Project Rationale…..…………………………………………………………………………4
1.4 Objectives ……………………………………………………………………………..……..5
1.4.1 General Objective…………………………………………………………………………..5
1.4.2 Specific objectives………………………………………………………………………….5
1.5Research questions ………………..……………………………………………….………….5
1.6 Research Hypotheses ……………..……………………………………………….…….……5
1.7 Scope of the Study………………………………………………………………….…..……5
1.8 Significance of the Study……………………………………………………………………..6
CHAPTER TWO
2.0LITERATURE REVIEW……………………………………………………………………7
2.1History of and importance of MARPOL Convention…………………….……………..….7
2.2 Importance of the human and marine environment in general………………………..……9
2.3 Important achievements of MARPOL Convention so far and other academic studies and research concerned with the MARPOL Convention………………………………………….10
CHAPTER THREE
3.0 MATERIALS AND METHODS…………………………………….……………..……12
3.1 The Study Area………………………………………………………………..………….12
3.1.1Description of the Study Area…………………………………………………………..12
3.1.2 Map of the Study Area …………………………………………………………..……13
3.2 Sampling and Sample Size………………………………………………………..………14
3.3 Data Collection……………………………………………..…………………….………14
3.3.1 Interviews and Discussions……………………………………….……………….…..14
3.3.2 Questionnaires………………………………………………………….…………..….15
3.3.3 Archived articles and research studies…………………………………….… ……….15
3.4 Method of analysis………………………………………………………….……………15
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 RESULTS AND FINDINGS………………………………………………….…….…17
4.1Response rate for significant achievements of MARPOL Convention………….………17
4.1.1 Explanation of Table 1……………………………………………………………..…18
4.2 Response rate for need to preserve human and marine environment…………….……..19
4.2.1 Explanation of Table 2…………………………………………………………..……20
4.3 Factors affecting MARPOL Convention in its implementation………………….….…20
4.3.1Explanation of Table 3…………………………………………………………..……21
4.4 Regression results……………………………………………………………..……….25
4.4.1Explanation of Table 4 ……………………………………………………..………..26
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 Discussion of results…………………………………………………………….….…27
5.1Response rate……………………………………………………………………..……27
5.2Explanation of the achievements of MARPOL Convention…….……………….……27
5.1.1 Increased individual conscience on the need to preserve the human environment in general and the marine environment in particular ………………..……..……………….28
5.1.2Increased individual recognition that negligent or accidental release of oil and other harmful substances from ships constitutes a serious source of pollution……….…………………29
5.1.3Increased individual desire to achieve the complete elimination of intentional pollution of the marine environment by oil and other harmful substances and the minimization of accidental discharge of such substances………………………………………………….…………30
5.1.4Individual consideration that MARPOL Convention may best be achieved by establishing rules not limited to oil pollution having a universal purport…………………….………31
5.1.5Increased individual need to improve further the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships, particularly oil tankers …………………………………………….………32
5.2Explanation for need to preserve the human and marine environment in general…..33
5.2.1Biodiversity………………………………………………………….………….…33
5.2.2 Climate and weather regulation…………………………………………..………34
5.2.3 Provision of Social and Economic services……………………………………….34
5.2.4 Provision of natural resources……………………………………………..……..35
5.3Explanation for respondents criteria for factors affecting MARPOL Convention in its implementation……………………………………………………………..………….35
5.3.1Financial capability as a factor affecting MARPOL Convention in its implementation……………………………………………………………..………….35
5.3.2Institutional capacity and interagency cooperation………………………………36
5.3.3Political will and mindset………………………………………………………..38
5.3.4 Participation of non-state actors…………………………………………………39
CHAPTER SIX
6.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS………………………..………41
6.1 Conclusion………………………………………………………………………….41
6.2 Recommendations…………………………………………………………………..43
REFERENCES……………………………………………………………………….46
Appendix 1: DATA INSTRUMENT
Questionnaire……………………………………………………………………… …51
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Respondents criteria for achievement of MARPOL Convention……………………17
Table 2: Respondents criteria for need to preserve human and marine environment in general…………………………………………………………………………………………17
Table 3: Respondents criteria for factors faced by MARPOL Convention in its implementation………………………………………………………………………………..20
Table 4: Regression results on the effect of socio-economic factors on implementation of MARPOL Convention…………………..……………………………………………………25
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Map of the Study Area……………………………………………………………..13
Figure 2: Proportion of Respondents who agreed that Institutional capacity and interagency cooperation as important in implementation of MARPOL Convention………………………22
Figure3: Proportion of Respondents who agreed that political will and mindset was important in implementation of MARPOL Convention ……………………………………………………23
Figure4: Proportion of Respondents who agreed that financial capability was important in implementation of MARPOL Convention…………………………………………………..24
Figure 5: Proportion of Respondents who agreed that participation of non-state actors has an influence implementation of MARPOL Convention ……………………………………….25
ABSTRACT
Marked decrease in overall pollution from ships within human and marine environments has been associated with the implementation of the MARPOL Convention (73/78). This study focused on the achievements of MARPOL (73/78) adapted from and the factors influencing the implementation of MARPOL (73/78) in various states including the United Kingdom and Nigeria. Using participant observations, in depth interviews of key informants, focus group discussions and administration of questionnaires between 1st December 2015 – Research Paper Writing Help Service and 30th February 2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online involving 100 respondents from Liverpool John Moores University and South Tyneside College UK, some active seafarers in Nigeria and a Master Mariner’s view who graduated from Liverpool John Moores University, results showed that the socio-economic factors influencing implementation of the MARPOL Convention include; financial capacity, institutional capacity and interagency cooperation, political will and mindset and participation of non-state actors all according to the criteria given by the Master Mariner. Information gotten from the survey in the descriptive research design was substantiated through archived research projects and articles concerning the MARPOL Convention (73/78). The implications of this study’s findings for reduction in pollution of human and marine environments will demonstrate the importance of incorporating human behavior while implementing pollution management policies going along way to decrease chances of failure of such policies. Qualitative and quantitative data was analyzed by categorizing the main themes of information; financial capacity, institutional capacity and interagency cooperation, political will and mindset and participation of non-state actors and variables were tested for significance using multiple regressions in Microsoft Excel. Analyzed quantitative data was presented through visual aids such as graphs and charts to aid the reader in understanding the data distribution in percentages.
CHAPTER 1
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Overview
This chapter presents the background information on the study, states the objectives of the problem, the importance of the study and the scope of this study.
1.1 Background Information
According to the international maritime organization IMO (1996), vessel sources pollution are dealt with by two fundamental instruments at the international level, they are the 1982 united Nations convention on the laws of the sea (UNCLOS CONVENTION) and the international convention for the prevention of pollution from ships, 1973 as modified by the protocol of 1978 (MARPOL 73/78). The relevant stipulation of the MARPOL is implemented by directive 2005/35/EC at the European level on vessels source pollution and on penalties introduction, including criminal penalties for pollution offenses as amended by directive 2009/123/EC.
MARPOL convention is the most important global legal medium for ship-source marine pollution prevention in which technical issues are covered. It introduced a system of design, construction and the necessary equipment for the prevention of marine pollution. A system of inspections, surveys and certification are implemented through this substantive obligation. However, the convention demands coastal states to provide pollution prevention reception facilities for oily water disposal, garbage, sewage and other hazardous substances. Regulations concerning the various sources of generated vessel pollution are contained in the six MARPOL Annexes and are regularly updated. Annexes I and II covers the prevention of pollution of oil and chemicals, while Annexes III, IV, V, and VI covers package materials, sewage, garbage and air pollution. The MARPOL Annexes are amended through the tacit acceptance process.
Zafrul (2006 – Write a paper; Professional research paper writing service – Best essay writers) says that, the unregulated large number of vessels that are operating for merchant shipping and inland transportations is one of the major contributing factor of pollution of the marine environment, pollution from ships at ports and other different marine areas has turned out to be a very familiar incident due to the negligent of laws enforcement and deficiencies of resources concerning government department in some part of the world. The major source of vessel pollution in the marine environment is the oil pollution and tankers are the main cause. Zafrul (2006 – Write a paper; Professional research paper writing service – Best essay writers) notes that little or large amount of oil usually escape into the sea during tankers operation citing examples such as transfer of oil from a big tanker to small oil tankers leading to discharge of oil into the sea and also a lot of oil spills that have happened in the past which has led to pollution of large areas of the marine environment. Another pollution problem he notes is the dumping of sewage and garbage from ships. In the past, the volume of this type of waste from land compared to vessels was not considered too much. Nevertheless, the increasing production of non-biodegradable substances such as plastic has made the situation different because large amount of can foods and sachet items are now carried onboard ships, which are usually dumped into the sea by vessels especially in areas of non surveillance.
It can be argued that development of new equipment that will help to stop or limit pollution of the marine environment to its lowest harmful limit can turn to be a contributing factor if not correctly used (UK P&I club, 2010 – Essay Writing Service: Write My Essay by Top-Notch Writer). Zero tolerance approach is committed by the global shipping industry for any non-compliance with the international convention for the prevention of pollution from ships (MARPOL) in respect to this, the industry has committed to a strict adherence to international maritime organization (IMO) requirements concerning the use of oily water separators and the discharge and monitoring of oil into the sea. The oily water separator helps to separate oily water in the bilge tank before the water can be discharged into the sea but if the oily water separator is not properly maintained, monitored, or operate properly it will lead to discharge of oily water into the sea and this is due to human error. Shipping Industry Guidance (2006 – Write a paper; Professional research paper writing service – Best essay writers).
1.2 Statement of the problem.
There is no doubt that environment both human and marine has brought substantial direct benefits to nations across the world, allowing economic developments and improved livelihoods for many, but marine resource must be managed on a sustainable basis. Kinzig et al (2002) note that the main benefits of marine ecosystems include restoration of biodiversity, natural resources, provision of social and economic goods and services and regulation of weather and climate. Marine ecosystems, however, face many challenges largely caused by human activities and interference. One of the main sources of marine pollution according to Karim (2009) is vessel source pollution be it through unregulated operations of a large number of vessels, oil spills accidental or intentional and dumping of garbage and sewage from ships. Few decades after the creation of the MARPOL Convention it can be noted that the Convention has not been fully implemented by nations that are signatory to it. Since many nations economies depend on marine ecosystems as a source of livelihood and sustenance, destruction as a result of pollution from vessels in the sea threatens the survival of various biodiversity, natural resources and consequently the survival of economies in terms of trade and transport. Several nations that are signatory to the MARPOL Convention face many challenges in its implementation. Szepes (2013) sites challenges such as unreliable monitoring equipment and surveillance capability, enforcement and deference challenges, inadequate technologies for monitoring discharges and collecting reliable evidence and inadequate funds in some states to construct reception facilities. These challenges thus hinder successful implementation of the MARPOL Convention (73/78) in some states.
1.3 Project rationale.
The MARPOL Convention largely depends on the compliance of signatory states for its success and development. The compliance levels of states can either mean an improvement or decline in marine ecosystem health. Despite the enormous development opportunities associated with the trade and transport across marine ecosystems, little has been done to check on its sustainability. If the declining health of marine ecosystems and slow implementation of the MARPOL Convention is not treated with urgency and the status quo changed it will result in collapse of multi-million fishery, closure of several fish factories and transport companies, loss of employment, closure of trade opportunities, increased food insecurity around developing and dependent countries and ultimately reduced economic status of several nations. Karim (2009) suggests that the future successful implementation of MARPOL Convention depends on strengthening of institutional capacity and interagency cooperation, political will and change of political mindset, the inclusion of non-state actors in decision-making and the creation of incentives for Environmental Compliance. This project thus seeks to analyze how the above stated socio-economic factors affect successful and complete implementation of the MARPOL Convention (73/78) through human behavior and opinions. MARPOL Convention (73/78) acknowledges the importance of preserving the marine and human environment in general by covering prevention of pollution of marine environment by ship, both operational and accidental, governs design and equipment of ships, establishes system of certificates and inspection and requires states to provide reception facilities for ship generated wastes through its various annexes according to the International Maritime Organization (2014: 2024 – Essay Writing Service. Custom Essay Services Cheap).
1.4 Objectives
1.4.1General objective
To analyze factors influencing the implementation of MARPOL convention.
1.4.2 Specific objectives
1. To determine achievements of MARPOL Convention (73/78).
2. To determine factors influencing the implementation of MARPOL Convention in nations across the world.
1.5 Research questions
1. What are the achievements of MARPOL Convention (73/78) so far?
2. What factors influence the implementation of MARPOL Convention in nations across the world?
1.6 Research Hypotheses
1. There are no significant achievements of MARPOL so far.
2. There are no factors influencing the implementation of MARPOL Convention in nations across the world.
1.7 Scope of the study
This study was carried out at Liverpool John Moores University and South Tyneside College UK, around some active seafarers in Nigeria and involved a Master Mariner’s view who graduated from Liverpool John Moores University. The study analyzed the implementation of MARPOL convention.
1.8 Significance of the study
This study’s finding will go a long way in demonstrating the importance of successfully implementing the MARPOL Convention in a nation’s human and marine ecosystem. Furthermore the importance of incorporating human behavior in the establishment of pollution management policies will be determined. Improvements in the implementation of the MARPOL Convention for states will benefit all economies dependent on the marine fishery, trade, and transport. Where many livelihoods depend overwhelmingly on marine resource-based activities, it is fundamentally important that conservation approaches internalize the dynamic interdependencies between the welfare of the populations and the condition of the resource. Benefits would be defined in terms of increased biodiversity yields, more aesthetic views, improved economic levels and better-regulated climate and weather.
A history of marine shipping details a lot of marine pollution, death of many forms of biodiversity in affected areas, reduced aesthetic, social and economic value of many affected marine areas and conflicts concerning acceptance of pollution responsibility between nations. All these necessitated the creation of a marine policy that could handle these issues especially after large oil spillages of the 1960s.
Szepes(2013) notes that the convention is ambitious combining International, Environmental and Maritime Law. He adds that the overall success of MARPOL Convention (73/78) is measured by the impact it has had in achieving its objections, that is to protect the world marine environment. Overall this study will show that MARPOL is a significant progress in achieving its objectives, but still has some way to go and which is affected by factors such as financial capability, political will and mindset, institutional capacity and interagency cooperation and incorporation of non-state actors’ participation. All of these socio-economic factors point towards human behavior importance in creation of management policies.
CHAPTER 2
2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW
This chapter reviews the achievements of MARPOL Convention(73/78) affected by socio economic factors relating to its implementation, history and importance of the MARPOL Convention(73/8), and the need to preserve the marine and human environment in general. Other academic studies and research concerning the implementation of MARPOL Convention are also discussed.
2.1 History and importance of MARPOL Convention.
One of the main sources of marine pollution is vessel source pollution be it through unregulated operation by a large number of vessels, oil spills accidental, operational or intentional and dumping of garbage and sewage from ships according to Karim (2009).The problem of vessel-source pollution in marine ecosystems was mentioned as early as the 1960s. Szepes(2013) notes that the grounding of the Exxon Valdez in 1989 resulted in a discharge of 35,000 tons of crude oil which is estimated to have killed 250,000 sea birds, 2800 otters, 300 seals and 13 orca whales. It also required over 3.5 billion USD in clean up costs. Such pollution incidences necessitate Conventions that aim to prevent and minimize pollution from ships. According to IMO (2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online), the MARPOL Convention was adopted on 2 November 1973 at the International Maritime Organization. The Protocol of 1978 was adopted in response to a spate of tanker accidents in 1976-1977 and since the 1973 MARPOL Convention had not yet entered into force, the 1978 MARPOL Protocol absorbed the parent Convention. IMO (2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online) further states that the combined instrument entered into force on 2 October 1983. In 1997, a Protocol was adopted to amend the Convention and a new Annex VI was added which entered into force on 19 May 2005. MARPOL has been updated by amendments through the years.
The MARPOL Convention includes six annexes with Annex I looking at regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by oil(October 1983), Annex II contains Regulations for the Control of Pollution by Noxious Liquid substances in Bulk( April 1987), Annex III concerns Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by Harmful Substances carried at sea in Packaged Form, Annex IV includes Regulations for the Prevention of Pollution by Sewage from ships(December 1998), Annex V contains Regulations for the Control of Pollution by Garbage from ships and Annex VI contains Regulations for the Prevention of Air Pollution from ships( May 2005).
From the above annexes we note that the importance of the MARPOL Convention include increased individual conscience of the need to preserve the human environment in general and the marine environment in particular, increased recognition that deliberate, negligent or accidental release of oil and other harmful substances from ships constitutes a serious source of pollution, increased national desire to achieve the complete elimination of intentional pollution of the marine environment by oil and other harmful substances and the minimization of accidental discharge of such substances, consideration that this object may best be achieved by establishing rules not limited to oil pollution having a universal purport and recognizing also the need to improve further the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships, particularly oil tankers.
It must be noted that MARPOL is a voluntary convention and this serves as one of its weaknesses as some states view it as a source of financial drain in terms of required responsibilities and financial obligations.
2.2 Importance of the marine and human environment in general.
The marine environment according to ICMTS (1999) refers to those waters that are saline and tide-affected while the coastal zone is defined as those areas of land which border the marine environment. Both of these environments are important to the welfare of human beings in that they affect the economies of various nations in terms of livelihood and sustenance. One of the consequences of species loss may be alteration or loss of certain ecosystem processes thus understanding how changes in biodiversity affect the flow of energy and the cycling of nutrients and carbon remains a primary focus for ecological research (Kinzig et al, 2002; Loreau at al 2002; Naeem and Wright, 2003)
Biodiversity is an important aspect when it comes to marine and human environment referring to various forms of life. Worm (2008 – Affordable Custom Essay Writing Service | Write My Essay from Pro Writers) concludes that marine biodiversity loss is increasingly impairing the oceans capacity to provide food, maintain water quality and recover from perturbations. Marine biodiversity serves as food and source of income to many individuals and its destruction results in reduced living standards for many. Szepes (2013) makes a note on the grounding of Exxon Valdez in 1989 as having resulted in a discharge of 35,000 tons of crude oil which is estimated to have killed 250,000 sea birds, 2800 otters, 300 seals and 13 orca whales.
Climate and weather regulation is another importance of marine and human environments. Human dominated environments are experiencing accelerating loss of populations and species. Marine ecosystems like oceans transfer heat around the world drive climate and weather systems.
UNEP (2008 – Affordable Custom Essay Writing Service | Write My Essay from Pro Writers) Human and marine environments enable provision of social and economic goods and services including tourism and recreation, marine transport and security coastal protection. According to GESAMP (2001a) apart from fisheries, tourism is also a major revenue generation strategy for many nations.
Provision of natural resources is an importance of human and marine environments in general with Stark and Chew (2001) noting that mining for sand, gravel, coral, and minerals have been taking place in shallow waters and continental shelves for decades. Offshore drilling now supplies a substantial proportion of the world’s oil and natural gas, and the offshore industry is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
2.3 Important achievements of MARPOL Convention so far and other academic studies and research concerned with the MARPOL Convention.
In a study conducted by Mark Szepes (2013) concerning challenges of regulating vessel-source oil pollution, factors used to determine whether MARPOL Convention has been able to successfully achieve its Annexes objectives include the ability to cause individuals, companies and states involved to act positively towards alleviating the issue of vessel- source pollution. Another is improved knowledge and education about the issues and problems arising from marine pollution. He notes that the convention is ambitious, combining International, Environmental, and Marine Law. He further adds that the overall success is measured by the impact it has in achieving its objectives; protect the world’s marine environment.
Challenges faced by MARPOL in its implementation include operational challenges like unreliable monitoring equipment and surveillance capabilities. Szepes (2013) notes that this implies that compliance rely on the good faith and honesty of a ship’s crew. Enforcement and deterrence changes are another challenge the conventions implementation faces. According to Szepes (2013), financial penalties placed on discharges impacts operational discharges on a small scale leading to under penalization. Another challenge he noted was technological difficulties for monitoring discharges and collecting reliable evidence. Szepes (2013) concluded that those tests that discharge which were detectable were always above that of the standard limit, and observation by this method should be clear evidence of a violation of MARPOL. Another challenge is many nations’ unfulfilled obligations towards the construction of reception
Facilities due to the cost involved as well as the fact that there is a lack of repercussions for non-compliance, especially in developing countries. A report by the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development estimated the construction for reception facility to be USD 560 million for the period 10993-2000.
Another study on the implementation of the MARPOL Convention in Bangladesh by Saiful Karim (2009) concludes that solutions towards challenges facing implementation of the MARPOL Convention include strengthening of institutional Capacity and Interagency Cooperation. Karim (2009) notes that drafting or enacting legislation as a first step is easy, however, enforcement of these domestic regulations is the problem. In Bangladesh, the authority of different government agencies is not very clear, the maritime administration, port administration, environment department, customs department, Coast Guard, and naval forces are not coordinated under a single administration yet they work under the same area causing conflicts. Striving for political will and change in political mindset is also a solution towards challenges facing implementation of the MARPOL Convention. Karim(2009) notes that many developing nations earn a considerable amount of revenue from sea ports and other maritime activities but regard the international standard in IMO Conventions as ideals to strive for, but not standards to, which can reasonably be met at this time by ships thus considering investment for marine environmental protection a luxury. The notion that marine environmental law offers inadequate answers to the needs of developing nations should be done away with. Karim (2009) insists that no- state actors should be encouraged to participate and incentives for Environmental Compliance should be created. The opinions of the people directly affected by marine pollution, that is, those dependent on the ocean should be taken into account. The command and control approach must be done away with. He adds that market-based mechanisms for solving environmental problems must be established including privatization of marine resources and eventually enabling reception facilities creation.
CHAPTER 3
3.0 MATERIALS AND METHODS
This chapter describes the research methodology of this study, explains the sample selection, describes the procedure used in designing the instrument used for collecting data and provides an explanation of the statistical procedures used to analyze the data.
3.1 THE STUDY AREA
3.1.1Description of Study Area
Liverpool John Moores University, Coordinates (53.400° N, 2.97000W) and South Tyneside College UK, Coordinates (54.9860° N, 1.4200°W) are all to the West of the North Sea(560 N 030 E) towards the inland area. The above areas of study fall under the British government that is a signatory to the MARPOL Convention. The North Sea is an important European shipping lane as well as a major fishery. The Country Analysis Briefs Energy Information Administration(2007) notes that the sea is a popular destination for recreation and tourism in bordering countries and more recently has developed into a rich source of energy resources including fossil fuels, the wind and early efforts in wave power. The sea, however, experiences pollution from ships in terms of oil and gas spills.
3.1.2 MAP OF THE STUDY AREA
Source: Project Britain available on www. Woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk
Figure 1: Map of the study Area.
3.2 Sample Selection and Size
For this study, chief mate students, for both Liverpool John Moores University and South Tyneside College UK, some active seafarers in Nigeria and a Master Mariner’s view who graduated from Liverpool John Moores University were selected since they have firsthand information and experience with the implementation of the MARPOL Convention. Purposive sampling of the various students resulting in 60 students selected excluding the active 39 Nigerian sea farers and the Master Mariner.
3.3 Data collection
This study employed the use of questionnaires, interviews, discussions and archived articles and research projects on the implementation of MARPOL Convention.
3.3.1 Interviews and Discussion
The decision parameters were first identified through expert interviews and discussions involving the Master Mariner and used in the eventual analytical behavioral approach used to design the questionnaire. The main themes of information identified include: Increased individual conscience on the need to preserve the human environment in general and the marine environment in particular, Increased individual recognition that deliberate, negligent or accidental release of oil and other harmful substances from ships constitutes a serious source of pollution, Increased individual desire to achieve the complete elimination of intentional pollution of the marine environment by oil and other harmful substances and the minimization of accidental discharge of such substances, Individual consideration that this object may best be achieved by establishing rules not limited to oil pollution having a universal purport and Individual need to improve further the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships, particularly oil tankers.
3.3.2 Questionnaires
A survey questionnaire (Appendix 1) containing both open and close-ended questions was administered to the 100 persons selected by the researcher to collect qualitative data. Recipients were requested to complete the questionnaires which were collected by the researcher the next day. Those who misplaced theirs were handed other ones.
The survey used in this study addressed three purposes. The first purpose was to discuss the achievement of the MARPOL Convention. The second purpose was to review the need to preserve the marine environment in particular and the human environment in general. The third purpose was to examine the importance of the international convention for the prevention of pollution of the sea by oil and other harmful substances.
3.3.3 Archived articles and research projects.
Information gotten from the questionnaires was substantiated by data gotten from other archived articles and research projects on the implementation of MARPOL Convention.
3.4 Method of analysis
For this study, data analysis consisted of examining the surveys for correctness and completeness, coding and keying data into Microsoft Excel 2007, and performing a regression analysis on the information. Bar charts and graphs were constructed to display results with respect to each of the three research questions.
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 RESULTS AND FINDINGS
This chapter gives an account of the views of seafarers which are chief mate students, for both Liverpool John Moores University and South Tyneside College UK, some active seafarers in Nigeria and a Master Mariner’s view who graduated from Liverpool John Moores University. The chapter includes both negative and positive feedback on the implementation of MARPOL Convention; significant achievements of MARPOL so far including Increased individual conscience on the need to preserve the human environment in general and the marine environment in particular, Increased individual recognition that deliberate, negligent or accidental release of oil and other harmful substances from ships constitutes a serious source of pollution, Increased individual desire to achieve the complete elimination of intentional pollution of the marine environment by oil and other harmful substances and the minimization of accidental discharge of such substances, Individual consideration that this object may best be achieved by establishing rules not limited to oil pollution having a universal purport and Individual need to improve further the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships, particularly oil tankers. In addition, the need to preserve the marine environment in particular and the human environment in general together with the importance of the international convention for the prevention of pollution of the sea by oil and other harmful substances are shown. The socio- economic factors affecting implementation of the MARPOL Convention are shown.
4.1 Response Rate for significant achievements of MARPOL Convention
Table 1: Respondents criteria for Achievements of MARPOL
The table below details the Percentage response of the Achievements of MARPOL
Criteria Percent( Multiple responses) Number of fishermen, n
• Increased individual conscience on the need to preserve the human environment in general and the marine environment in particular
• Increased individual recognition that negligent or accidental release of oil and other harmful substances from ships constitutes a serious source of pollution
• Increased individual desire to achieve the complete elimination of intentional pollution of the marine environment by oil and other harmful substances and the minimization of accidental
discharge of such substances
• Increased individual consideration that this object may best be achieved by establishing rules not limited to oil pollution having a universal purport
• Increased individual realization of the need to improve further the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships, particularly oil tankers.
68%
56%
70%
76%
54%
68
56
70
76
54
4.1.1 Explanation of table 1
The figure above shows that that a majority of respondents, 68% ,n=68 believe that MARPOL Convention has increased individual conscience on the need to preserve the human environment in general and marine environment in particular, while 56 %, n=56 believed that MARPOL has increased individual recognition that negligent or accidental release of oil and other harmful substances from ships constitutes a serious form of pollution, 70%,N=70 of the respondents feel there has been increased individual desire to achieve the complete elimination of intentional pollution of the marine environment by oil and other harmful substances and the minimization of accidental , 76%, n=76 of the respondents believe there is Increased individual consideration that this object may best be achieved by establishing rules not limited to oil pollution having a universal purport while 54%,n=54 believe there is Increased individual realization of the need to improve further the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships, particularly oil tankers.
4.2: Response Rate for Need to preserve marine and human environment
Table 2: Respondents criteria for need to preserve Marine and human environment
Criteria Percent( Multiple responses) Number of fishermen, n
• Biodiversity
• Climate and weather regulation
• provision of social and economic goods and services
• Provision of natural resources
88
92
95
86
88
92
95
86
4.2.2 Explanation of table 2
The figure above shows that that a majority of respondents, 88% ,n=88 believe that biodiversity is importance in preservation of human and marine environment, while 92%, n=92 believe that weather and climate regulation is important within human and marine environments, 95%,n=95 feel human and marine environments should be preserved since they are important in provision of social and economic goods and services, 86%, n=86 stated that human and marine environments were important in the provision of natural resources.
4.2.3 Factors affecting MARPOL in its implementation
From the Questionnaire factors affecting the implementation of MARPOL included:
Table 3: Respondents criteria for factors faced by MARPOL in its implementation include;
Criteria Percent( Multiple responses) Number of fishermen, n
• Institutional capacity and interagency cooperation
• Political will and mindset
• Financial capability
• Participation of non-state actors
75
81
73
63 75
81
73
63
4.2.4 Explanation of table 3
Figure 1: Proportion of Respondents who agreed that Institutional capacity and interagency cooperation as important in implementation of MARPOL Convention
The figure above shows that a majority of the respondents, a total of 75%, n=75 felt that institutional capacity and interagency cooperation was an important socio-economic factor influencing implementation of MARPOL Convention.
Figure 2: Proportion of Respondents who agreed that political will and mindset was important in implementation of MARPOL Convention
The figure above shows that a majority of the respondents, a total of 73%, n=73 felt that political will and mindset was an important socio-economic factor influencing implementation of MARPOL Convention.
Figure 2: Proportion of Respondents who agreed that financial capability was important in implementation of MARPOL Convention
The figure above shows that a majority of the respondents, a total of 81%, n=81 felt that financial capability was an important socio-economic factor influencing implementation of MARPOL Convention.
Figure 2: Proportion of Respondents who agreed that participation of non-state actors was important in implementation of MARPOL Convention
The figure above shows that a majority of the respondents, a total of 63%, n=63 felt that participation of non-state actors was an important socio-economic factor influencing implementation of MARPOL Convention.
4.3 Regression results
The regression results carried out were done by multiple regressions through analyzing the socio-economic factors identified against response rates for their importance in implementation of MARPOL Convention in Microsoft Excel 2007.
Table 4: Regression results on the effect of socio-economic factors on implementation of
Variable Coef. Std Error P
Institutional Capacity and Interagency Cooperation
Political will and mindset
Financial Capability
Participation of non-state actors
0.73035
0.63724
0.1408095
0.0160943
0.05136294
0.062457
0.0547899
0.06710843
0.002373
0.0022857
0.005071
0.0078697
4.3.1 Explanation of Table 4
From the table 4 above institutional capacity and interagency cooperation, political will and mindset, financial capability, participation of non-state actors are all significant socio-economic factors affecting the implementation of the MARPOL Convention, P< 0.05 from respondent views.
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 DISCUSSION OF RESULTS
This chapter involves the discussion of the main results which is obtained from the questionnaire sent out and the comparison that is made with previous finding and literature.
Response rate
100 out of 105 questionnaires distributed were collected and found suitable for analysis indicating a more than 91.8% response rate thus fit for analysis according to Mugenda & Mugenda (1999) with criteria given for factors influencing implementation of MARPOL Convention.
5.1 Explanation on the Achievements of MARPOL.
The achievements of MARPOL Convention (73/78) can be adapted from the parties to the Convention. From Table 1 above in Chapter 4 the most essential achievement identified from the survey was increased individual consideration that MARPOL Convention may best be achieved by establishing rules not limited to oil pollution having a universal purport with a response rate of 76%,n=76, followed by increased individual desire to achieve the complete elimination of intentional pollution of the marine environment by oil and other harmful substances and the minimization of accidental discharge of such substances with 70% response rate, n=70, individual conscience on the need to preserve the human environment in general and the marine environment with a response rate of 68%, n=68, increased individual recognition that negligent or accidental release of oil and other harmful substances from ships constitutes a serious source of pollution with response rate of 56%, n=56 and individual need to improve further the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships, particularly oil tankers with 54%, n=54.
5.1.1Increased individual conscience on the need to preserve the human environment in general and the marine environment in particular.
With a response rate of 68%, n= 68, the above achievement of MARPOL Convention is significant. MARPOL, the international convention for the prevention of pollution from ships, covers prevention of pollution of marine environments by ship, both operational and accidental, IMO (2014: 2024 – Essay Writing Service. Custom Essay Services Cheap). Benefits of marine and human environment include habitats for various forms of biodiversity, climate and weather regulation, provision of natural resources, social and economic services. Annex I establishes the increase of individual conscience of need to preserve the human environment in general and the marine environment in particular. Ecosystem services derived from the human and marine environments include provisioning services, cultural services, supporting services and regulatory services. Constantzael (1997) defines ecosystem services as benefits provided to humans through the transformation of resources (or environmental assets, including land, water, vegetation and atmosphere) into a flow of essential goods and services example clean air, water and food. Seamans church (2011) notices that marine pollution occurs when hazardous materials enter the ocean including those that come from marine transportation, marine dumping and offshore facilities. Since the marine ecosystems are vast it’s difficult to know the extent of pollution suffered by them.
5.1.2Increased individual recognition that negligent or accidental release of oil and other harmful substances from ships constitutes a serious source of pollution
The table 1 in chapter four, details that the above factor is significant with a response rate of 56%, n=56. The response rate shows that various sea men and civilians realize the damage pollution does on any environment. Through MARPOL states are learning of the penalties accorded those ships that pollute the marine environments, be it accidentally, operationally or intentionally. Seamans church (2011) notes that marine pollution can take many forms such as garbage which includes plastic thrown into the sea which stay for many years and harm life, oil spills, noise and even chemical pollution. In the European Commission’s(2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online) article on ‘ protecting and conserving the marine environment’, importance of marine environments are stated including regulation of climate, prevention of erosion, accumulation and distribution of solar energy, absorption of carbon dioxide and maintenance of biological control. Seamans church(2011) state that garbage threatens ships when they get trapped on propellers and in sea water intakes and furthermore, contains chemicals that alter the marine environment causing some marine life to die and other marine life to flourish throwing off natural balance of marine ecosystems and deprives marine environments of oxygen, killing entire population in affected areas.
5.1.3Increased individual desire to achieve the complete elimination of intentional pollution of the marine environment by oil and other harmful substances and the minimization of accidental discharge of such substances
From table 1, the response rate of the above achievement is 70%, n=70 this shows the achievement is significant. The benefits achieved from a cleaner marine and human environment are becoming clear to nations. Intentional pollution of marine environments many times occurs from the land areas themselves where factories dump their waste into the water bodies. Sewage is dumped into water bodies at times as runoff. Economies are able to provide social services such as tourism and recreational services. This is especially so for developing countries and thus they can generate revenue. Seamans church (2011) recognizes that products that are potentially harmful include oil, that poisons marine life, and oil slicks that keep light from penetrating the oceans water, killing plants and damaging entire marine ecosystems. Noise is also a pollutant especially from ships sonar affecting marine animals that use sound to communicate with one another, examples dolphins and whales. The fact equipment and resources are being invested in by nations in monitoring pollution of marine environments and in successfully resolving pollution issues is a clear indication of the willingness by nations to minimize pollution and if possible eradicate it completely.
5.1.4Individual consideration that MARPOL Convention may best be achieved by establishing rules not limited to oil pollution having a universal purport
MARPOL is universal and many nations are signatory to it and from the response rate of 54%, n=54 the above achievement is significant. Seamans church (2011) emphasizes by adding that ten minutes after a spill of one ton of oil, it can spread to a radius of 50 meters, forming an oil slick of 10 millimeters thick. The European Commission (2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online) recognizes that the marine environment is a great contributor to economic prosperity, social well being and quality of life for all nations across the universe. The Commission states that the marine environment can be used to achieve economic potential, so its protection is crucial at a time when the European Union is seeking to revitalize its economy. Seamans church (2011) notes that over two thirds of the world’s population lives in a coastal strip 120 miles wide. According to them, impacts of shipping pollution include mechanical effects on marine life, which damage the organisms functions, eutrophic effect that cause some forms of bacteria to flourish at the cost of other forms of life , saprogenic effects which cause oxygen deficiency and kill ocean organisms, toxic effects which damage reproduction feeding and respiration, mutagenic effects which cause cancer and wound marine organisms as well as effects from oil spills which quickly devastate the marine environment.
5.1.5Increased individual need to improve further the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships, particularly oil tankers.
From table 1, 54%, n=54 of the respondents mentioned the fact individuals realize the importance of improving further the prevention of marine pollution from ships, particularly oil tankers. If individuals recognized the detriment of marine pollution, multiple benefits of the marine ecosystems will be realized. MARPOL regulates the disposal of waste generated by normal operations of vessels and serves to preserve the marine environment through the complete elimination of pollution by oil and other harmful substances. The European Commission (2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online) notes that threats facing structures ad functions of the worlds seas are caused by pressures of various sea-based activities like oil and gas exploration, dredging and extraction of sand and gravel, commercial fisheries and tourism. European Commission (2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online) further recognizes that land based activities like agriculture and industry accounts for 80% of marine pollution. These pressures, European Commission (2016: 2024 – Do my homework – Help write my assignment online) notes are exacerbated by the increasing impact of climate change. For marine ecosystems recovery, Marshall and Schutterburg (2006 – Write a paper; Professional research paper writing service – Best essay writers) note that good water quality, an abundant and diverse community of herbivorous fishes, and high coral cover are key aspects considered.
5.2Explanation for Need to preserve the human and marine environment in general
To obtain information concerning the need to preserve the human and marine environment in general, archived research projects, articles, literature and questionnaires were used. The marine ecosystem is important in terms of provision services, regulating services, cultural services and supporting services.
5.2.1Biodiversity
The results in table 3 show that 88% of the respondents, n=88 mentioned biodiversity as an importance of the human and marine environment. Karim (2009) states in his study concerning Implementation of MARPOL in Bangladesh that repeated oil spills from foreign and local ships which call into the Mongla Port in Bangladesh are creating a severe threat to the world’s largest tidal halophytic mangrove forest, the Sundarbans. He notes that the Sundarbans is very important for the marine living resources as it is the main spawning ground of major commercially important marine species including prawn and fish. According to Biodiversity is life (2010 – Essay Writing Service: Write My Essay by Top-Notch Writer) oceans contain a vast diversity of habitats and spectacular seascapes, hosting 32 of the 34 phyla of the planet, of which around 13 are exclusively or mostly marine.
5.2.2 Climate and Weather regulation
The study showed in table 3 that Climate and weather is an importance of human and marine environments by 92% response, n=92. Oceans are important in climate and weather regulation since they cover over 70% of the Earth’s surface, and drive heat around the land systems. According o Enviropedia(2011) the global climate system is made up of atmosphere, the oceans, the ice sheets( cryosphere) living organisms( biosphere) and the soils, sediments and rocks( ecosphere) which all affect the Earth’s surface. Flows of energy take place between the atmosphere and the other parts of the climate system, most significantly the world’s oceans. For example, the ocean currents move heat from warm equatorial latitudes to colder polar latitudes.
5.2.3 Provision of Social and Economic services.
From the results in table 3, 95% of the respondents, n=95 acknowledged the importance of social and economic services of marine and human environments. Fisheries are an important economic service and Mullan et al (2005) notes that they can easily collapse even when the level of catch has been stable for years. Mullan et al(2005) also notes that changes in and loss of biodiversity directly influences the capacity of an ecosystem to produce and supply essential services, and affect the long-term ability of ecological, economic and social systems to adapt and respond to global pressures.
5.2.4 Provision of natural resources
Table 3 shows that 86% of the respondents, n=86 mentioned an importance of human and marine environments as the provision of natural resources. Grant (2014: 2024 – Essay Writing Service | Write My Essay For Me Without Delay) notes that there are much more hidden ways oil gets into the sea. He adds that about 5% of this oil is derived from natural resources and about 35% from ongoing operations of shipping including illegal discharges and tank cleanings. A further 5% he says comes from undefined sources. However, the vast majority with 45% comes from stemming from urban and industrial waste and drilling rigs. The ocean environment provides fuel since most of our oil and gas reserves lie beneath the sea floor and other food supplies. There are plans to generate more electricity from waves, tidal currents and offshore winds.
5.3Explanation for respondents criteria for factors affecting MARPOL Convention (73/78) in its implementation include;
5.3.1Financial capability as a factor affecting MARPOL Convention in its implementation
From the table four P< 0.05 for financial capability as a factor affecting MARPOL Convention in its implementation. This shows it is significant and with a response rate of 75%, n=75 shown on Table 3 proven by figure 4. Some states view some requirements of the MARPOL Convention as a luxury especially when it comes to construction of
expensive facilities like reception facilities according to Karim (2009). This is especially so for developing nations. Szepes(2013) notes that there is need for the MARPOL port states to ensure that reception facilities are in place and that they are operated in a manner which is not prohibitive financially in relation to the cost of use and the efficiency of that use. Szepes (2013) further notes that states tend to defer responsibility for reasons such as costs involved in taking action. Weber and Crow(2000) note that in the period leading up to 2000, it was found that cases involving the oil discharges regularly took more than a year to settle, and that the average penalty imposed by the USCG once a case had been settled was 3.96 USD per liter of oil discharged into the sea. Mitchell (1994) further stated that there is reluctance on the part of the United States to detain vessels for discharge violations that are considered minor (those below 5000 gallons). This lack of detention results in difficulty in the collection of fines for minor violations, especially if the ship does not return to a United States Port.
5.3.2Institutional capacity and interagency corporation.
From table 3, institutional capacity and interagency cooperation was mentioned by 75%, n=75 respondents emphasized by figure 2, and in table four P< 0.05 meaning it’s a significant factor in implementation of MARPOL Convention. One of the early factors identified as a probable challenge for MARPOL Convention was that of monitoring discharges from older ships which have not been the subject of strict construction requirements according to Birnie et al (2009). Various institutions and agencies need to
cooperate in order to be able to successfully implement regulations stipulated by MARPOL in any one nation. In the late 1980s when MARPOL had only recently come into effect, it was estimated that vessels released 2 million tons of oil into the sea according to Griffin (1994). By 2007 it was estimated that this figure had been reduced to 450,000 tons of oil entering the marine environment annually according to Birnie et al (2009). For such achievements to be attained various institutions and agencies in nation serve to monitor pollution within the sea and see as to how pollution problems can be solved. Karim (2009) in his study on ‘the implementation of MARPOL Convention in Bangladesh’ notes that fragmentation of authority makes it difficult for departments to take action under port states control. He insists all concerned agencies should be coordinated under a single authority. He adds that authority of different government agencies should be well spelt out. One of the primary contributions of marine accidents which normally leads to the pollution of the marine environment is human error and approximately $1.5 million per day is being spent by the shipping industry due to human error as estimated by the UK P&I club (2010 – Essay Writing Service: Write My Essay by Top-Notch Writer) and also poor use of equipment is a factor which is contributing 22% of these marine accidents that usually leads to pollution of the marine environment. An oily water separator helps to separate oily water in the bilge tank before the water can be discharged into the sea but if the oily water separator is not properly maintained, monitored, or operated properly it leads to the discharge of oily water into the sea and this is due to human error according to Shipping Industry Guidance (2006 – Write a paper; Professional research paper writing service – Best essay writers).
5.3.3Political will and mindset.
From table four, political will and mindset are an important factor influencing implementation of the MARPOL Convention, P< 0.05 and in table three 81% ,n =81 of the respondents proven by figure 3 cite it as an influence in implementation of MARPOL Convention. Mitchell (1994) notes that MARPOL is not intended to totally eliminate all oil discharges into the sea, however, the point has not been reached where those discharges have reached a level that has no more of an impact on the environment than that of naturally occurring oil release. According to Annex I of MARPOL Convention, Regulation 20, it is stipulated that there should be reception facilities available in ports for wastes that cannot be discharged while at sea. Mitchell(1994) notes that ten years from the ratified deadline of construction of reception facilities in signatory state, many states still have not constructed reception facilities due to the cost involved as well as the fact that there is a lack of repercussions for non- compliance. The ability to spend funds on construction of reception facilities considering they are quite expensive and the willingness to comply by regulation stipulated by the MARPOL Convention largely depends on a country political system. Szepes (2013) notes that although compliance of equipment standards does not impose a cost on port states in relation to enforcement as the ship owners absorb compliance costs, port states as members of MARPOL Convention are required to have discharge reception facilities. Szepes (2013) views the reception facilities as an unfulfilled obligation.
5.2.4Participation of non-state actors.
From table 4 P<0.05 and in table 3, 63%, n=63 of the respondents emphasized by figure 5 mentioned the importance of non-state actors in implementation of the MARPOL Convention. Non-state actors are referred to as civilians that are somehow directly linked to marine environments. Ibid (2000) note that prior to the second world war, the accepted practice for managing shipboard waste was to, as it were, throw it into Davy Jones locker’, that is the sea. The realization that every vessel at sea generates oily waste regardless of size or purpose has been emphasized by Szepes (2013). This waste, Szepes (2013) is generated by the operation of the vessel and additionally through transportation of oil.
All nations must realize that the presence of reception facilities, Tan (2006 – Write a paper; Professional research paper writing service – Best essay writers) does not guarantee that they will be used, and this is due to the fact that some ports charge exorbitant reception fees or that the use of the facilities would cause as significant delay. Olson (1999) says that refinery terminals where vessels take on their cargo of oil are generally equipped to process oily water on a large scale. Financial requirements for many non-state actors supersede the will to minimize pollution. Incentives to ensure the use of facilities like reception facilities and significant deterrence to ensure that crews do not view the option of illegal discharge as more favorable due to insufficient enforcement and punishment must be placed according to Szepes (2013). According to Ibid( 2000), some crew members feel that even if they dump wastes into the sea and
are caught there is a low chance of a sanction and in the limited case that a sanction is imposed it would be unlikely to have a major effect on the operation of the ships or its owner. For this reason, Szepes (2013) notes that ships may be willing to take the risk of dumping water or waste into the sea. Minimized pollution of human and marine environment. Zafrul (2006 – Write a paper; Professional research paper writing service – Best essay writers) says that the unregulated large number of vessels that are operating for merchant shipping and inland transportations is one of the major contributing factor of pollution of the marine environment, pollution from ships at ports and other different marine areas has turned out to be a very familiar incident due to the negligent of laws enforcement and deficiencies of resources concerning government department in some part of the world. Karim (2009) confirms this in his study of ‘the implementation of MARPOL Convention in Bangladesh’.
CHAPTER SIX
6.0: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
6.1 Conclusions
The findings from the study confirmed that socio-economic factors influence the implementation of the MARPOL Convention (73/78). The socio-economic factors found significant include political will and mindset, interagency cooperation and institutional capacity, a state’s financial capability and participation of non-state actors, that is common civilians affected directly by marine environment exploitation. Heterogeneous responses among the respondents may have been due to different levels of information obtained concerning the MARPOL Convention (73/78). The study aimed at determining the socio-economic factors affecting implementation of the MARPOL Convention (73/78) although the significant achievements of the MARPOL Convention are also relayed.
Regression analysis run to determine socio-economic factors affecting the implementation of MARPOL Convention revealed that the institutional capacity and interagency cooperation influence the implementation of MARPOL Convention. Institutions that are well coordinated and with properly spelt out functions are prone to implementing environmental policies like the MARPOL Convention better than those that are fragmented and disorderly and with other departments overstepping their jurisdiction according to Karim(2009).
With proper political will and mindsets the MARPOL Convention can be implemented since a country’s government is responsible for the allocation of budget, deciding what is more important and leaving out anything deemed a luxury. Many governments spend millions of dollars in their budgetary allocations such that the developing nations, who struggle to feed their citizens and provide basic necessities hardly, afford to spend on anything they feel is not urgent according to Karim (2009). Politicians through a
hierarchy system propose what is more important and many times construction and purchase of expensive structures and equipment concerning the environment is deemed not urgent in most developing nations.
Financial capability is a strong influence on the implementation of the MARPOL Convention especially in developing nations. Annual budgetary allocations exceed billions of dollars and anything added to the budget must be absolutely necessary and approved by the country’s citizens especially in democratic societies with tax levies. The construction and purchase of equipment that enables successful monitoring, reporting and resolving of marine pollution is quite expensive for many nations. This serves as a weakness to the implementation of MARPOL Convention. Note that a reception facility in the 2000s costed about 560 billion USD and believes that by now they have gotten more expensive.
Participation of non-state actors was also found significant since many persons associated with shipping activities are common civilians at the lower level. Many of them are directly concerned with implementing the MARPOL Convention yet several of them are unaware of its existence. They are not to feel as though it is okay to dump wastes into the ocean be it because it is considered cheaper or from the notion they will never get caught. Significant achievements of MARPOL Convention can be adopted from the parties to the convention and include increased individual conscience on the need to preserve the human environment in general and the marine environment in particular, increased individual recognition that negligent or accidental release of oil and other harmful substances from ships constitutes a serious source of pollution, increased individual desire to achieve the complete elimination of intentional pollution of the marine environment by oil and other harmful substances and the minimization of
accidental discharge of such substances, increased individual consideration that this object may best be achieved by establishing rules not limited to oil pollution having a universal purport and increased individual realization of the need to improve further the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships, particularly oil tankers. All the above achievements are an indication that the MARPOL Conventions implementation is successful in most signatory states.
Benefits accrued from reduced marine pollution include ecosystem services that include provisioning services, regulatory services, and cultural services as well as supporting services. Marine environments provide food like fish, water and other natural resources like fuel and coral reefs. All of these serve as sources of economic and social prowess. Many people are employed as a result of marine environments, and many others view it as a source of livelihood and sustenance.
6.2Recommendations
Since the MARPOL Convention (73/78) is yet to be fully implemented in some states, solutions regarding challenges facing its successful implementation were discussed. Challenges facing the MARPOL Convention can also be viewed as factors affecting its implementation and include political will and mindset, operational challenges, technological challenges, financial challenges, participation of non-state actors and institutional capacity and interagency cooperation.
Operational challenges noted by Szepes (2013) including unreliable monitoring equipment and proper utilization of the existing ones. Training of experts in their utilization is a solution towards such mishaps. The officials involved directly with environmental institutions should be aware of the importance of each and every environmental policy including the MARPOL Convention (73/78).
Financial and technological challenges can be seen from the failure of many signatory states in construction and purchase of expensive equipment like monitoring facilities and reception facilities. Szepes (2013) views reception facilities as an unfulfilled obligation. This is because of their expensive nature. Although many developing nations accrue a lot of revenue from activities associated with the marine environment, they find it difficult to invest in its sustenance. A good example is given by Karim (2009) concerning Bangladesh in his article on the implementation of MARPOL Convention. Political systems must be encouraged to invest in the MARPOL Convention through setting aside portions of money in the budget to enable purchase of equipment for monitoring and surveillance. Even though the progress may be slow, somehow the dedicated nations will succeed in their endeavour. Karim (2009) notes that many nations lack the proper expertise concerned with combating marine pollution.
Every agencies importance, function and jurisdiction should be clearly spelt out. The fragmentation of various authorities is a challenge. The coordination of various agencies is paramount. Penalties and punishments on those who break the MARPOL Convention must be meted out to encourage adherence to regulations. However it must be noted that ships regardless of size and purpose, according to Szepes (2013), must release oil during their operations. This, however, does not mean that the small portions are to be overlooked as normal.
For successful enforcement of the environmental policies, ignorance amongst environmentalists should be totally done away with. Many non-state actors are unaware of the MARPOL Convention and thus a system should be introduced into the environmental departments concerned with sensitizing those associated with marine environments on various environmental policies. Non-state actors are the first beneficiaries for the marine environment activities. If sensitized concerning importance of implementing the MARPOL Convention can be more willing to accept and protect the marine environment. Get research paper samples and course-specific study resources under homework for you course hero writing service – Manage ment measures including strengthening of institutional capacity and interagency cooperation should be encouraged to combat marine pollution.
Further research on the implementation of MARPOL Convention should be encouraged through funding especially on human behavior. This study should serve as a platform for future work focusing on MARPOL Convention. According to Szepes (2013) the compliance to MARPOL Convention (73/78) relies on the good faith and honesty of a ship’s crew.
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Appendix: DATA INSTRUMENT USED
Name of Interviewer:
Date:
SECTION 1: PERSONAL DATA.
Name of Respondent: Age:
Sex Male [ ] Female [ ] Nationality:
Level of Education (Tick one)
No schooling [ ] Primary [ ] Secondary [ ] University [ ] Tertiary [ ] Others (Specify)
I will be very grateful if you would spare a few minutes of your valuable time and complete this questionnaire for the project, which will be anonymous. Thank you.
SECTION 2: THE MARPOL CONVENTION
Information given in this questionnaire is strictly for academic purpose, the reason for this questionnaire is to enable me to complete a dissertation on the project titled: Socio-economic factors affecting implementation of MARPOL Convention (73/78)
1. What do you understand by marine pollution?…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
2. In your opinion, how does marine pollution come about?………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
3.What do you understand by the MARPOL Convention?…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
4. Have you ever heard of the MARPOL Convention before?…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
SECTION 3: THE IMPLEMENTATION OF MARPOL CONVENTION.
1. Marpol has reduced pollution of the marine environment to 60% since its implementation.
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
2. Not all pollution of the marine environment are being reported
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
3. There is a slight chance of detecting ships that are making unlawful discharge at sea.
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
4. Area where there are extensive system of surveillance e.g. in the north sea and channels, there are chances that discharge will be detected in large number compare to area with less surveillance system
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
5. Areas where no discharge has been reported in the past, it is possible that many discharge has taken place in such areas but has not been detected
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
6. It is difficult to verify the non-compliance with the requirement of the marpol convention.
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
7. The IMO has stressed the importance of technical as well as financial support to assist some developing states in ratifying the marpol convention
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
8. There is a lack of enforcement of the marpol convention
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
9. Mechanisms are put in place by the marpol convention to deal with violators of dumping law.
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
10. Pollution of the marine environment is not being monitored in some undeveloped countries and as such, ships can still release oily water from the bilge and as well as other harmful substances into the marine area of such countries without no action being taken.
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
11. Marpol convention is treating fairly pollution offenders
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
12. The implementation of marpol 73/78 has a significant technical and economic impact.
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
13. Reception facilities in many ports today has a technical problem In implementing annex 1 of the marpol convention
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
14. Not all oil exporting states today that have ratified the marpol convention are complying fully with the requirement of the convention.
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
15. Not all states today that have ratified the marpol convention are complying fully with the requirement of the convention.
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
16. Some developing states are still having difficulties in ratifying the marpol convention.
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
17. Most pollution of the marine environment in the past is cause by tanker spillage.
(I) Agreed (ii) strongly agreed (iii) disagreed (iv) strongly disagreed.
SECTION 3: FACTORS INFLUENCING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF MARPOL CONVENTION
1. STATE FINANCIAL CAPACITY
1. Which factors affect the implementation of MARPOL Convention according to your criteria? Explain………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
1. STATE FINANCIAL CAPACITY
Does a nation’s financial capability affect its ability to implement MARPOL Convention?
Explain………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
2. POLITICAL WILL AND MINDSET
Does a nation’s political will and mindset affect its ability to implement MARPOL Convention?
Explain………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
3. PARTICIPATION OF NON-STATE ACTORS
Does a nation’s participation of non-state actors affect its ability to implement MARPOL Convention?
Explain………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
3. INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY AND INTERAGENCY COOPERATION
Does a nation’s participation of non-state actors affect its ability to implement MARPOL Convention?
Explain………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
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