Who issues the MARPOL International Pollution Prevention Certificate (NLS)?

The MARPOL International Pollution Prevention Certificate for Noxious Liquid Substances (NLS) is issued by a Recognized Organization or Class Society. These organizations are authorized by flag states to conduct inspections and certifications on behalf of the government of the country whose flag the vessel flies.

The certification process involves assessing the vessel's compliance with the Annex II of the MARPOL convention, which includes regulations for the prevention of pollution by noxious liquid substances carried in bulk. This means that the organizations that issue the MARPOL certificates have the necessary expertise and recognition to evaluate whether a ship meets the stringent criteria set forth in MARPOL.

Recognized Organizations usually include classification societies, but they can also involve other entities designated by governments to carry out inspections and issue related certificates. This delegation of authority is essential for ensuring that vessels operate under international pollution prevention standards while allowing flag states to maintain oversight and responsibility.

While the International Maritime Organization provides the overarching framework and guidelines for such certificates, and the U.S. Coast Guard and the American Bureau of Shipping are involved in maritime safety and environmental protection, they do not issue the MARPOL NLS certificate directly. Instead, the role of issuing the certificate rests with the Recognized Organizations or Class Societies, ensuring that they