A new EU agreement has expanded the European Maritime Safety Agency’s (EMSA) role to enhance maritime security, addressing cybersecurity, the green transition, and emerging threats. EMSA will support EU member states in cyber defense, pollution response, and surveillance, adapting to modern challenges while ensuring effective resource management for its expanded responsibilities.
The European Council and Parliament have reached a provisional agreement to enhance the European Maritime Safety Agency’s (EMSA) mission. This initiative addresses evolving maritime challenges, including cybersecurity. Polish Minister Dariusz Klimczak stated that revising EMSA’s mandate will ensure its effectiveness in tackling safety, pollution, and decarbonization in the maritime sector.
A coalition of 82 non-profits and clean energy groups is urging the EU to strengthen climate initiatives in shipping. Following the IMO’s recent inadequate measures, they highlight that nearly 90% of shipping emissions remain unpriced, jeopardizing the transition to cleaner energy and risking failure to meet 2030 targets.
A coalition of 82 non-profits and industry stakeholders has urged the EU to adopt stronger policies to support the shipping industry’s climate goals. They criticized recent International Maritime Organization measures as insufficient for achieving decarbonization, emphasizing the need for enhanced support for green hydrogen and e-fuels to meet emissions targets.
The European Commission has updated the Vessel Monitoring Directive to require all vessels in EU waters to provide insurance information, enhancing safety and environmental protection. Director-General Magda Kopczyńska stressed the importance of this measure in improving coastal states’ preparedness. The EU’s commitment to maritime safety is further demonstrated through proposed amendments to Mandatory Ship Reporting Systems.
Ukrainian officials have extended a freight liberalisation agreement allowing Ukrainian cargo to enter the EU without permits. This agreement, signed in 2022, streamlines trade operations by eliminating the need for transport permits. The extension is crucial due to the impact of the Russian invasion on Black Sea ports, making trade flow maintenance essential.
The European Union is reevaluating the biofuel certification process amid concerns of fraud, potentially suspending ISCC certifications for waste-derived biofuels. The shipping industry in Europe is moving towards using ISCC-certified biofuels, but questions remain about sustainability and food production impacts. The upcoming MEPC 83 meeting will address strategies for greener shipping practices.
The European Court of Auditors has raised concerns about ship pollution in EU waters despite investments. Enforcement and tracking were found lacking, urging more action to reach zero pollution goals. Member states were criticized for not utilizing available tools and missing inspection targets. Recommendations include better monitoring and stricter penalties to achieve cleaner waters by 2030.
A recent report from the European Court of Auditors (ECA) reveals the failure of EU countries to enforce regulations aimed at preventing sea pollution. Despite available funds, misuse and lack of tracking hinder progress. Marine pollution remains a significant issue in European waters, jeopardizing the EU’s goal of eliminating seawater pollution by 2030.
The captain of the German factory trawler Helen Mary was arrested in Cork, Ireland after a sea interdiction by EFCA. Suspected of EU fisheries law violations, the vessel was inspected for multiple offenses, including safety concerns. This incident follows previous scrutiny by Greenpeace and highlights the need for stricter regulations on industrial fishing vessels.
The European Union has extended Operation Aspides, its maritime security initiative in the Red Sea, until February 28, 2026, with over 17 million euros allocated. Led by counter-admiral Vasiseios Gyparis, the operation aims to ensure safe navigation amidst regional tensions, focusing on intelligence related to arms trafficking and shadow fleets.
Methane emissions in the maritime sector have surged due to the rise in LNG-powered vessels, with EU shipping emissions increasing since 2015. The lack of mandatory reporting on pollutants like particulate matter and black carbon is a concern, highlighting the need for more data and international guidelines to promote sustainable ocean management.
EU-funded researchers have developed the Common Information Sharing Environment (CISE) to enhance communication between maritime authorities. Led by Isto Matilla at Laurea University in Finland, the platform aims to address illegal activities at sea by improving cooperation. The system integrates surveillance systems across European countries to facilitate data exchange and coordination in monitoring sea borders.
A new EU-funded project led by VTT has successfully tested a groundbreaking solution to extend 5G network coverage and capacity beyond coastal areas, improving communication, safety, and passenger experiences in maritime operations. This project showcases Finland’s expertise in 5G technology and represents a significant advancement for the shipping industry.
Turkey has rejected the EU’s Maritime Spatial Planning maps for the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, calling them “null and void.” The Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasized that the EU has no authority in maritime disputes between sovereign states. They stress the importance of resolving issues with Greece through direct dialogue and international law, not EU involvement.
