This Manual provides practical information to Governments and competent (port) authorities, in particular those in developing countries, as well as the shipping industry, agencies and waste contractors seeking guidance when implementing MARPOL.
 
It also provides guidance on how to deal with possible inadequacies, as, in order to comply fully with MARPOL, a party State has to ensure the provision of adequate port reception facilities meeting the needs of ships using their ports, without causing undue delay to the ships.