80% of marine pollution comes from land-based activities. Rivers, sewage, and atmospheric pollution contribute significantly. Ships discharge ballast water and oil, spreading invasive species. Deep sea mining releases toxic metals into oceans
MARPOL is the most important international marine environmental convention. Convention aims to minimize ocean pollution including dumping and air pollution. 156 states are parties, representing 99.42% of world's shipping tonnage
Cargo ships carry goods between ports worldwide. Modern cargo ships are built of welded steel, typically 25-30 years old. Cargo and freight terms are interchangeable in casual usage
Bilge is the lowest compartment on a ship's hull, located between floors. First recorded use of the term is from 1513
Early fishing vessels included rafts, dugout canoes and wooden boats from 7,000 years ago. Egyptians developed wooden ships around 3000 BC, including the Khufu ship. Scandinavians introduced segregated hull compartments and iron-built boats. Dutch developed Herring Buss in 15th century, becoming European blueprint
Located beneath Bikini Atoll in the Pacific Ocean. Population varies from 500 to millions according to various sources. Governed by a mayor and royal family