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Marine Protection Permitting

  • Marine Protection Permitting

    The EPA implements the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act to safeguard the ocean by preventing or limiting the disposition of any material into ocean waters that would adversely affect human health or the marine environment.

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Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act

Since 1972 the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act has protected human health and the marine environment from activities that involve releasing materials into the ocean.

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MPRSA Permits

Permits issued under the MPRSA authorize the transportation and disposition (dumping) of specific materials into the ocean.

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MPRSA Ocean Sites

The EPA is responsible for designating and managing ocean sites under the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act.

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London Convention and London Protocol

The London Convention and London Protocol are international treaties that protect the marine environment from pollution caused by the dumping of wastes and other matter into the ocean. The MPRSA implements the requirements of the London Convention in the United States.

News and Updates

  • The EPA issued an MPRSA research permit for the LOC-NESS Wilkinson Basin Study. Read more about the LOC-NESS Wilkinson Basin Study and about permitting of marine carbon dioxide removal activities under the MPRSA.

Related Information

Explore the MPRSA ocean sites map to view designated sites and authorized locations where disposition of materials have been permitted under the MPRSA!

Explore this interactive StoryMap about how the MPRSA and the EPA have protected human health and the environment from pollution for over 50 years!

MPRSA-related Resources

  • EPA Marine Protection Program Regional Contacts
  • National Guidances and Policies
  • Regional Guidances and Policies
  • Permitting of marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) activities
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on April 23, 2025
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