Coast Guard Marine Environmental Protection Flashcards

Why is ballast water management important for the marine environment?

Answer: It prevents the spread of invasive aquatic species

Ballast water can transport invasive species between ecosystems, so management prevents ecological harm.

The Oil Pollution Act of 1990 was enacted largely in response to which event?

Answer: The Exxon Valdez spill

The Oil Pollution Act of 1990 was passed following the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill in Alaska.

Under the Oil Pollution Act, who is generally held financially responsible for cleanup costs of a spill?

Answer: The responsible party or vessel owner/operator

The Oil Pollution Act holds the responsible party liable for the costs of cleanup and damages.

What is the best practice for disposing of used oil filters and rags aboard a vessel?

Answer: Retain them for proper disposal ashore

Oil-contaminated waste must be retained aboard and disposed of at proper shoreside facilities.

Which of the following is considered a hazardous substance requiring special discharge reporting?

Answer: Certain paints, solvents, and chemicals

Certain chemicals such as solvents and paints are hazardous substances whose discharge must be reported.

What is the primary environmental concern with antifouling paints containing tributyltin (TBT)?

Answer: They are toxic and harm non-target marine organisms

TBT-based antifouling paints are highly toxic to marine life, which led to international bans on their use.

During refueling operations, what equipment should be readily available to prevent water pollution?

Answer: Spill containment materials such as absorbent pads and drip pans

Absorbent pads, drip pans, and containment materials should be ready during fueling to catch spills.