The maritime industry is an indispensable component of America’s multi-modal transportation system. Our economic prosperity and national security depend on it.  Every day millions of tons of agricultural products and raw materials move to market in barges on our inland waterways and on the Great Lakes.  Energy products, manufactured goods and other things move from port to port along our vast coastline, and across the oceans into the global economy.  American flag vessels stand ready to respond to the nation’s need for sealift to support disaster relief or military contingencies overseas.  Whether they know it or not, Americans rely on a safe, secure, efficient and environmentally sustainable maritime transportation system to maintain our way of life.  In partnership with private industry and international, federal, state, and local authorities, the MARAD Office of Environment and Compliance helps make this a reality.