Negligence in maritime operations can lead to what consequence?

Negligence in maritime operations can lead to accidental pollution incidents. This is primarily due to the failure of individuals or organizations to adhere to established safety and environmental regulations. When proper protocols regarding the handling and disposal of hazardous materials, maintenance of vessels, and operational safety are neglected, it increases the risk of spills and discharges into marine environments. Such incidents not only harm marine ecosystems but can also result in significant legal and financial repercussions for the responsible parties.

In contrast, efficiency in shipping, reduced shipping costs, or faster vessel turnaround times are generally seen as goals of good maritime management practices. However, negligence compromises safety and environmental integrity, leading to costly incidents like pollution, which makes option B the most accurate consequence associated with negligence in maritime operations.