Mediterranean ECA moves closer

Three comprehensive impact assessments already show significant socio-economic benefits of a Mediterranean ECA (MedECA). NABU, the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union, feels that further studies requested by the adopted road map will unnecessarily postpone the process and urges all parties to move forward.

Sönke Diesener, shipping expert at NABU, commented. “We welcome the broad commitment of all littoral states to establish a sulphur emission control area in the Mediterranean Sea. This is a great success for the protection of environment and human health.

“Given the evidence of three tabled ECA assessments political parties should not waste a single day to reduce air pollution from ships in the region.”

The European Parliament has recently adopted a resolution calling for the European Commission and member states to do their utmost in supporting the rapid designation of the Mediterranean Sea as an emission control area as a crucial step forward to reducing shipping emissions in Europe.