The Duty to Report under MARPOL Protocol 1 applies to the discharge of which substances?

• A. Oil
• B. All of the Above
• C. Noxious Liquid Substances
• D. Harmful Substances in Packaged Form

Answer: (B)

Under MARPOL Protocol I, the duty to report means a ship’s master must notify authorities about any discharge or probable discharge that can pollute the sea. This duty isn’t limited to oil alone; it also covers other hazardous substances defined by MARPOL. Specifically, it applies to discharges of oil, noxious liquid substances carried in bulk, and harmful substances in packaged form. Oil is the traditional pollutant of concern, but noxious liquids in bulk and harmful substances packaged for transport also pose significant environmental risks and require timely reporting to the appropriate authority. Because all three categories are included, the option that indicates all of the above is the best answer.