What does MARPOL stand for?

MARPOL stands for the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, which is focused on minimizing pollution from operational discharges and accidental spills from ships. It was developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and consists of several annexes addressing different types of pollution, including oil, noxious liquids, harmful substances in packaged form, sewage, and garbage. This convention is critical in protecting the marine environment and ensuring that ships operate in a way that minimizes their impact on the world's oceans. The clear emphasis on pollution prevention makes this answer the most accurate representation of MARPOL's purpose and focus.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the meaning or intent of MARPOL, as they pertain to different aspects of marine operations or regulations that are not directly related to pollution prevention from ships.