Document Type
Article Restricted
Publication Date
1995
Journal Title
Spill Science & Technology Bulletin
Volume Number
2
Issue Number
4
First Page
207
Last Page
215
Abstract
The International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation, 1990 (OPRC Convention, 1990) came into force on 13 May 1995. The main objectives of the OPRC Convention are to facilitate international co-operation and mutual assistance in preparing for and responding to a marine pollution incident and to encourage states to develop and maintain adequate capability to deal credibly with oil pollution emergiencies. The paper outlines and describes in some detail the strategy adopted by IMO in the implementation of the OPRC Convention, the mechanisms established to address/discuss issues of mutual concern amongst the member states of IMO and the oil industry, and the various activities undertaken by IMO in co-operation with relevant sister UN organizations and the oil industry to assist countries requiring assistance including the mobilization/provision of technical assistance to countries on an individual basis. It is apparent that IMO's role as a provider of technical advice and delivery of project assistance, as a co-ordinator for the mobilization of international assistance to major marine pollution incidents upon the request of countries in need, as a Forum for discussion/overseeing the implementation of the OPRC Convention (through the meetings of the OPRC Working Group) including the development of marine pollution preparedness and response training programmes is set to become more important given its pro-active approach to promoting oil spill preparedness in co-operation with industry and governments.