The Role of MARPOL in Reducing Microplastic Pollution: Implications for Marine Species Health

Abstract

This comprehensive study examines the critical role of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) in addressing the growing crisis of microplastic pollution and its subsequent effects on marine species health. Through extensive analysis of implementation data from 2015-2022, this research evaluates the effectiveness of current regulatory frameworks, identifies key challenges in enforcement, and proposes strategic improvements for enhanced marine environmental protection. The study employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative analysis of compliance data with qualitative assessment of implementation strategies across different maritime regions. Our findings reveal significant variations in MARPOL compliance between developed and developing nations, highlighting the need for more standardized implementation approaches. The research demonstrates a clear correlation between strong MARPOL enforcement and reduced microplastic ingestion rates in marine species, particularly in well-regulated waters. However, persistent challenges including limited monitoring capabilities, inconsistent enforcement mechanisms, and inadequate port reception facilities continue to hamper the convention's effectiveness. This paper proposes comprehensive recommendations for policy improvements and technical solutions, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and technological innovation in strengthening MARPOL's impact. The findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on marine environmental protection and provide valuable insights for policymakers, maritime authorities, and environmental scientists working to combat microplastic pollution in marine ecosystems.