Why there is a need for reception facities for ship operation inside the 50 called special areas?
The requirement for reception facilities for ship operations within the 50 designated Special Areas arises due to the need to protect the marine environment from pollution caused by the discharge of harmful substances from ships. These Special Areas are identified under international maritime regulations, specifically under Annexes I and V of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).
The reception facilities in these Special Areas serve a crucial role in ensuring that ships have the means to properly manage and dispose of their waste, including oily residues, garbage, sewage, and other harmful substances. By providing these facilities, the goal is to prevent pollution and protect sensitive marine ecosystems found in those designated areas.
To determine the specific requirements and locations of reception facilities within the Special Areas, one would need to refer to the provisions outlined in Annexes I and V of MARPOL. These provisions can vary depending on the area and the type of waste to be managed, but they generally stipulate the responsibility of the port or coastal state to establish and maintain adequate reception facilities for ships operating within the Special Areas.
Accessing the relevant documents, such as MARPOL and its Annexes, can be done by visiting the official website of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which is the United Nations specialized agency responsible for maritime safety and the prevention of marine pollution. The IMO's website provides access to various maritime conventions and related documents, including MARPOL and its Annexes, which contain the necessary information on the reception facilities required within the Special Areas.