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### Marine Ecosystems and Pollution Prevention Measures - Trends from November 2006 to the 2020s In 2006, Japan strengthened its efforts to protect marine ecosystems through revisions to the Marine Pollution Prevention Act. Particularly in coastal areas like Tokyo Bay and the Seto Inland Sea, the ocean dumping of waste containing oil or hazardous substances was strictly restricted, and sewage sludge was also excluded from permissible dumping. Consequently, recycling and incineration at waste treatment facilities were promoted, leading to over 10,000 tons of waste being processed onshore annually. Furthermore, international regulations were strengthened based on the London Convention and MARPOL Convention, advancing measures aimed at maintaining a sustainable marine environment. Entering the 2020s, response to oil spills from ship accidents gained even greater importance. In 2021, during the grounding incident of a cargo ship off Hachinohe Port in Aomori Prefecture, the Hokuri
ku Regional Development Bureau's large dredger and oil recovery vessel "Hakusan" was deployed, demonstrating improved response capabilities by swiftly recovering drifting oil. To prepare for such incidents, equipment maintenance and joint training exercises with relevant agencies are continuously conducted.

Furthermore, under the MARPOL Convention, efforts are advancing to assess the environmental risks of hazardous liquid substances transported in bulk. Through such assessments, measures are being implemented to prevent pollution from unassessed substances and to protect the marine environment.

Furthermore, along coasts such as Toyama Bay, efforts are focused on investigating land-based pollution sources to enable early detection of problems and implement countermeasures. In response to the worsening marine plastic waste problem, the nationwide "Marine Litter Zero Week" initiative has expanded environmental conservation efforts across Japan. This involves cleanup activities attracting over 800,000 participants annually. In 2020, the number of confirmed marine pollution incidents reached 453, an increase from the previous year. Oil spills were the primary cause, underscoring the continued need for swift response. Historically, Japan has promoted policies for the sustainable use of the marine environment through revisions to the Marine Pollution Prevention Act and international cooperation. Recognizing current challenges, Japan is working to protect marine resources for the future by strengthening domestic and international collaboration while adhering to internationa
l regulations.