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U.S. Department of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation Icon United States Department of Transportation United States Department of Transportation

Chapter Four Safety and Environment

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Chapter Four
Safety and Environment

Man fixing a light on the water. If you are a user with a disability and cannot view this image, please call 800-853-1351 for further assistance.
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Water transportation provides economic benefits, mobility, and recreational opportunities, but it also creates unintended consequences, such as fatalities, injuries and property damage due to accidents, and environmental damage. Hence, promoting safety and protecting the environment are key goals in the Department of Transportation's (DOT's) strategic plan.

This chapter offers data on the safety of commercial shipping and recreational boating and the environmental impacts associated with these activities. A special section on environmental issues associated with cruise ships appears at the end of this report.