Types of Oil Pollution

Oil spills from ships are the leading cause of oil pollution in the ocean, accounting for approximately 30% of all oil pollution incidents.

Natural seeps occur when oil from underground reservoirs seeps into the ocean through cracks or faults in the seafloor.

Bilge dumping refers to the illegal practice of discharging oil-contaminated water from the bilge (the lowest part of a ship's hull) directly into the ocean.

Oily water discharge refers to the release of oil-contaminated water from oil tankers during routine cleaning and maintenance operations.

Oil pollution can cause significant habitat destruction for marine organisms, affecting coral reefs, seagrass beds, and other sensitive ecosystems.

Seabirds are highly susceptible to oil pollution because they rely on their feathers for insulation and buoyancy. Oil contamination can damage their feathers, leading to hypothermia and drowning.

An oil plume refers to the dispersed oil droplets that form a cloud in the water column, often extending several kilometers from the source of the spill.

Oil booms are floating barriers used to contain oil spills and prevent their spread. They are deployed around the spill to create a physical barrier that traps the oil.

Dispersants are chemicals that are applied to oil spills to break them up into smaller droplets, which are then dispersed into the water column.

MARPOL 73/78 (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) is the primary international convention that regulates the prevention of oil pollution from ships.

Oil spill cleanup refers to the process of removing oil from contaminated shorelines, including beaches, rocky shores, and marshes.

Offshore drilling activities can lead to oil pollution through accidental spills, leaks, and discharges during the exploration and production of oil and gas.

Oil-water separation refers to the process of separating oil from water using a centrifuge, which spins the mixture at high speed to separate the two liquids.

Pipeline leaks can occur due to corrosion, damage, or other factors, leading to the release of oil into the marine environment.

The IOPC Fund provides compensation to victims of oil spills, including individuals, businesses, and governments, for damages caused by oil pollution.