Chronic hydrocarbon pollution of the seas is one of the most worrying sources of pollution and one which, in the majority of cases, is carried out with total impunity.
Some studies have tried to evaluate its scope and impact. Oceana has taken part in this task by preparing documents that assess the generation of hydrocarbon residues in Europe, illegal dumping, the infractions committed by fleets and the impact on the marine environment.
You can find these reports at:
Links to reports
The EU fleet and chronic hydrocarbon contamination of the oceans
The European Union is currently embroiled in a debate on improving community legislation with regard to this issue. The European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers are drawing up proposals for Directives to address this problem.
European institutions
International institutions
United Nations information on hydrocarbons in the sea
Information on MARPOL
International conventions
HELCOM for the Baltic Sea
OSPAR for the North-East Atlantic
BARCOM for the Mediterranean
Health
Other organisations

A DOCUMENTARY ABOUT ILLEGAL DRIFTNETS
Oceana in the documentary made by the producer EarthOcean about illegal drifnetters in the Mediterranean Sea. The video includes an interview with Xavier Pastor, Oceana’s Director for Europe, and also images of illegal driftnetters recorded during the expeditions on board the catamaran Oceana Ranger. Driftnets are banned since 2002 because they represent a major threat for the conservation of endangered species such as marine turtles and cetaceans.
OCEANA's REPORTS