What organization developed MARPOL to protect the marine environment?

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the organization responsible for developing MARPOL, formally known as the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships. This treaty was established to address the pollution of marine environments caused by ships and to set regulations on various pollutants, including oil, chemicals, and garbage. The primary objective of MARPOL is to minimize the environmental impact of shipping activities and protect marine ecosystems by ensuring ships follow stringent guidelines.

This focus on marine protection aligns with the IMO's broader mission to ensure safe, secure, and efficient shipping while also protecting the marine environment from ship-generated pollution. Other organizations, like the World Health Organization and the Environmental Protection Agency, work in different domains of health and environmental protection but are not directly involved with maritime regulations. The United Nations, while it is a significant global organization, does not directly develop treaties like MARPOL but may support initiatives that promote international cooperation in environmental protection through its agencies.