Which statement about Special Sea Areas is true?

• A. Special Sea Areas are designated to provide higher protection due to oceanographic and ecological conditions and sea traffic.
• B. They are areas with no restrictions on discharges.
• C. They exist only near ports.
• D. They are fishing zones.

Answer: (A)

Special Sea Areas are zones designated to receive higher protection because of delicate oceanographic and ecological conditions and heavy sea traffic. In these areas ships face stricter discharge rules than elsewhere, and some discharges may be prohibited altogether, to prevent pollution of vulnerable marine environments. This makes the statement true. The idea that there are no discharge restrictions is incorrect, since Special Sea Areas impose tighter limits. They are not limited to ports; they cover larger regions chosen for their environmental sensitivity and shipping patterns. And they are not fishing zones; their purpose is to reduce pollution from ships, not regulate fisheries.