Which sea is in the process of becoming a Special Area for passenger ships?

• A. Arctic Ocean
• B. Baltic Sea
• C. North Sea
• D. Mediterranean

Answer: (B)

This question tests understanding of Special Areas under MARPOL and which sea is designated or in the process of being designated for stricter sewage controls from passenger ships. Special Areas are waters where discharges from ships are subject to tighter limits to protect vulnerable ecosystems. The Baltic Sea has been identified for this status because it is a semi-enclosed, heavily trafficked area with limited water exchange, making it particularly sensitive to nutrients and pollution from sewage. The stricter rules aim to ensure that passenger ships treat sewage on board or hold it for port reception, rather than discharging it under looser conditions. The other seas listed do not share this ongoing designation status for passenger-ship sewage, so they do not fit the criterion of being in the process of becoming a Special Area for this purpose.