Ships operating in the maritime or cruise industries often have large numbers of people on board using toilets, showers, sinks and laundry facilities. This generates substantial volumes of wastewater that require careful handling.

For maritime operations, compliance with waste management regulations helps to mitigate the risk of environmental damage to water bodies and aquatic animals. Failure to meet these obligations can result in financial penalties, legal action, and long-term reputational damage, particularly where non-compliance leads to contamination of coastal or marine environments.

Bilge water, a by-product of maritime operations, accumulates in the lowest parts of a ship's hull and often contains oil, fuel residues, and other contaminants. If disposed of improperly, it poses environmental risks and leaves ship owners exposed to regulatory penalties.