Revision of the Directive on Ship-source Pollution [EU Legislation in Progress]

Written by Mathias Gullentops (5th edition, updated on 19.12.2024).

On 1 June 2023, the European Commission presented a legislative package to modernise and reinforce maritime rules on safety and pollution prevention. It contained proposals for the revision of five legislative acts, including the Directive on Ship-source Pollution. The aim is to combat pollution from maritime ships, thereby preventing all ship-owners and operators, regardless of the ship’s flag, from releasing any type of illegal discharge into European seas, in line with International Maritime Organization rules. The proposal contains a robust framework for penalties for infringements, and their application. In addition, there would be an extended range of substances classified as polluting, and enforcement would be strengthened.

Within the European Parliament, the file was assigned to the Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN). The committee adopted its report on 17 November 2023. The Council adopted its general approach on 4 December 2023. On 15 February 2024, the Parliament and Council reached a provisional agreement in interinstitutional negotiations. On 10 April 2024, Parliament adopted the provisional agreement in plenary, concluding its first reading. On 18 November 2024, the Council adopted Parliament’s first reading position. The final act was signed by the Presidents of the Council and Parliament on 27 November. The revised directive enters into force on 5 January 2025, and Member States have until 6 July 2027 to transpose its provisions in their national laws.

Complete version

• December 2024: Revision of the Directive on Ship-source Pollution (5th edition)