Garbage can be thrown overboard beyond what distance from any coastline?

The correct answer is based on international regulations regarding the disposal of waste at sea. According to MARPOL Annex V, which governs the disposal of garbage from ships, vessels are generally prohibited from discharging any garbage into the sea within 3 nautical miles of the nearest land. However, beyond this distance, there are additional stipulations that apply.

Specifically, while vessels can dispose of certain types of garbage beyond 3 nautical miles from the coastline, more restrictive measures are in place for certain kinds of waste. The critical threshold mentioned in the regulations is 12 nautical miles, where it is then possible to dispose of some types of garbage, as long as it complies with the guidelines established for the different categories of waste.

Therefore, garbage can be legally thrown overboard beyond 12 nautical miles from any coastline, as stipulated by international maritime regulations, making this the correct answer. This regulation aims to protect marine environments from pollution and ensure responsible waste management for ships operating in international waters.