What might be a reason that hazardous materials are often found at ports or docking areas?

Hazardous materials are often found at ports or docking areas primarily because these locations serve as critical points for the shipping and receiving of goods. During the process of transporting goods, a variety of materials, including hazardous substances, are frequently loaded and unloaded from ships, trucks, and containers. This logistical activity necessitates compliance with strict regulations designed to ensure safe handling, storage, and transport of such materials.

Moreover, ports are often equipped with specialized facilities and infrastructure to manage hazardous materials, including containment systems and safety equipment, which further facilitates their presence during shipping operations. As a result, ports naturally become central hubs for materials that may pose risks to health and the environment if not handled properly. The other options describe scenarios that do not typically align with the characteristics of hazardous materials or the environments in which they are commonly found.