Which landmark U.S. legislation called for new tankers to be constructed with a double hull?

The Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA 90) was established in response to the Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989, which highlighted significant gaps in U.S. laws regarding the prevention and response to oil pollution. One of the key provisions of OPA 90 was the requirement for new oil tankers to use double-hull construction technology. This design helps to minimize the risk of oil spills by providing an additional barrier between the cargo hold containing oil and the sea. If the outer hull is breached, the inner hull can still contain the oil, thus reducing the chances of a catastrophic spill.

This legislation marked a significant shift in regulatory approaches to maritime transportation safety, emphasizing prevention and improved design standards. The double hull requirement, therefore, serves as a vital component of the overall framework aimed at protecting marine environments and enhancing the safety of oil transport.