Evolution and Challenges of Marine Oil Spill Governance in Taiwan over Two Decades

Marine oil spills pose critical challenges to environmental sustainability and socioeconomic stability. Taking four pivotal cases as the entry point, this study uses comparative case analysis, semi-structured stakeholder interviews, policy analysis and international gap comparison to systematically analyze the evolution of marine oil spill governance in the Taiwan region of China over two decades, aiming to identify systemic gaps and propose actionable reforms. By integrating and explicitly detailing these multiple methodologies, this research not only identifies but also systematically examines the Taiwan region of China’s unique challenges as a non-UN-member entity navigating international conventions like the international convention for the prevention of pollution from ships, 1973, as modified by the protocol of 1978 relating thereto (MARPOL 73/78). Key findings reveal persistent issues in decision-support tools, fragmented inter-agency coordination, and legal inadequacies in compensation mechanisms. The study’s novelty lies in its rigorous synthesis of localized case-driven insights compared with global best practices, proposing a concrete, phased model for a unified task force and context-aware, data-driven contingency plans to enhance real-time response efficiency. It further advocates for pragmatic steps to align the Taiwan region of China’s Marine Pollution Control Act with international standards while critically addressing the transboundary collaboration barriers imposed by its political status, exploring potential pathways through sub-national and regional partnerships. Notably, the 2023 Angel Container case underscores the urgency of modernizing enforcement capacities and integrating advanced technologies. By bridging gaps in governance, legal accountability, and practical international engagement, this research not only advances the Taiwan region of China’s preparedness but also offers a nuanced and adaptable blueprint for coastal regions facing similar geopolitical and environmental constraints. Its recommendations hold significant implications for global marine pollution management, emphasizing the interplay of policy innovation, technological adoption, and pragmatic cross-jurisdictional cooperation.