Summary/Abstract
The Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA), also known as the Ocean Dumping Act, prohibits dumping into the ocean material that would unreasonably degrade or endanger human health or the marine environment. Ocean dumping cannot occur unless a permit is issued under the MPRSA. The act governs ocean dumping of material transported from the United States; transported inside U.S. waters from outside the U.S.; and by U.S. agencies and U.S.-flagged vessels or aircraft. The act also includes exemptions for placement of certain materials in the ocean for a purpose other than disposal. The London Convention is implement within the United States by the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act.