Professional Doctorate Thesis
Impact of ship-sourced oil pollution on maritime business through environmental and economic consequences, and mitigation strategies to minimize effects via integrated cooperation between the IMO, key stakeholders, and enhanced ship crew awareness.
by Dr. Capt. Prodip Kumar Roy
Research Overview
This professional doctorate research focuses on the impact of ship-sourced oil pollution on maritime business, particularly examining environmental and economic consequences and strategies to mitigate these effects. The study highlights that oil pollution from ships, including operational discharges and accidental spills, poses a major threat to marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and the global maritime industry. Oil spills not only damage marine flora and fauna but also affect human health, fisheries, tourism, and coastal economies, leading to significant financial losses and environmental degradation.
The research examines the causes of ship-sourced oil pollution, including human error, equipment failure, accidents, illegal discharge, and operational practices such as bilge pumping and tank cleaning. It also discusses the economic impact on the shipping industry, including cleanup costs, compensation claims, legal liabilities, insurance costs, operational delays, and reputational damage.
A major focus of the study is the role of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), key maritime stakeholders, governments, shipping companies, and ship crews in preventing and managing oil pollution. The research emphasizes the importance of international conventions such as MARPOL, SOLAS, and other environmental regulations in controlling marine pollution.
The study concludes by recommending an integrated management system involving IMO, stakeholders, and ship crew awareness, along with stronger regulations, training, maintenance, and accident prevention strategies to reduce ship-sourced oil pollution and ensure sustainable maritime business operations.