Name two key international treaties that affect maritime environmental protection.

The selection of MARPOL and the London Convention as key international treaties that affect maritime environmental protection is substantiated by their significant roles in establishing standards and protocols for environmental safety at sea. MARPOL, which stands for the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, specifically targets pollution from ships due to operational or accidental causes. It addresses several sources of marine pollution, including oil, noxious liquid substances, packaged harmful substances, sewage, and garbage, thereby encompassing a broad range of environmental protection measures within the maritime industry.

The London Convention, formally known as the Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Matter, primarily aims to protect the marine environment from the adverse effects of dumping waste at sea. This treaty emphasizes the regulation of ocean disposal of various wastes, reinforcing the commitment to minimize marine pollution and protect marine biodiversity.

Together, these two treaties establish a robust framework for maritime environmental protection, ensuring that operators comply with international standards to safeguard the marine environment.