Shipboard Pollution Control: U.S. Navy Compliance with MARPOL, Annex V

The U.S. Navy, by action of the Congress is directed to comply with regulations set forth in the international agreement MARPOL Annex V (MARPOL 73/78). The Committee on Shipboard Pollution Control was convened by arrangement between the Navy and the National Research Council to evaluate technology options that are relevant to Navy compliance with Annex V for surface ships by 2000 and submarines by 2008. In addition, the committee was asked to consider technology implications of future regulations.

MARPOL Annex V places limits on ocean discharge of solid waste materials. Plastics may not be discharged into the sea at all. Paper (including cardboard), metal, and glass may not be discharged in Special Areas. Special Areas include the North Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, the Greater Caribbean (including the Gulf of Mexico), and other important areas. In this report, the committee focuses on technologies that will help and enable the Navy to comply with these restrictions.