Shipwrecks: A Genuine Pollution Risk

Marine pollution, defined as the introduction by humans of substances or energy into the marine environment causing harmful effects, is often associated with major maritime accidents. Modern vessels carrying immense cargoes and large quantities of fuel pose significant threats when reduced to shipwrecks through incidents such as breakage, grounding, sinking, or explosion. These shipwrecks represent a genuine risk of accidental—rather than operational—pollution. The author examines how such maritime disasters endanger marine ecosystems, biological resources, human health, and maritime activities including fishing and leisure, highlighting the critical need for effective prevention and intervention measures.