Which organization sets international standards for oil pollution prevention and response?

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the correct answer because it is the specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for regulating shipping. The IMO establishes global standards for the safety, security, and environmental performance of international shipping, including protocols for oil pollution prevention and response.

The organization develops international conventions that aim to minimize the risk of oil spills and enhance the ability of countries to respond effectively when spills occur. One significant convention is the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), which specifically addresses oil pollution among other pollutants. The regulations and guidelines established by the IMO are critical for maintaining marine environment integrity and ensure that vessels adhere to the highest standards of safety and environmental protection.

In contrast, while organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) focus on environmental protection, they do not have the regulatory authority specifically for oil shipping practices. The International Shipping Federation (ISF) serves the shipping industry by promoting good practices, but it does not set international regulatory standards like the IMO does. Therefore, the IMO is the recognized body that establishes the framework for oil pollution prevention and response on a global scale.