EMSA (European Maritime Safety Agency) demonstrates how ,in 2022, they supported the European Commission on the maritime dimension of the European Green Deal, focusing on the legislative initiatives linked to the Fit for 55 package.
EMSA remained committed to decarbonizing shipping and promoting efficiency through a series of initiatives and moves within both a theoretical and practical scope. For instance, they began a new study series on alternative fuels, starting with ammonia and biofuels.
#1 Marine ecosystem
In the context of the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, they continued work on underwater noise, and participated in the relevant technical groups at EU level.
#2 Technology
In 2022, they equipped 12 of our 16 chartered oil spill response vessels with light Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS). In late April, EMSA announced recently that a remotely piloted aircraft will be flying over North Sea for enhanced maritime surveillance in support of Danish Authorities.
#3 Visits
As 2022 saw the ending of COVID-19 travel restrictions in many places they were able to carry more visits and inspections than the pre-pandemic yearly average.
#4 Equipment
In addition, they installed their fifth Equipment Assistance Service (EAS), and they made near shore equipment available in all their stockpiles, helping to improve Member State preparedness in the event of a pollution incident.
#5 Further than the EU
Their projects in support of European Neighbourhood Policy countries in the Black and Caspian Sea and in the Mediterranean ended in 2022. According to EMSA, their new projects BCSEA II and SAFEMED V – have a larger budget and even more ambitious work plans.
#6 Planning ahead
Furthermore, earlier this year EMSA has issued its outlook for 2023, featuring the activities of the year ahead and the areas in which they will work to meet ambitious objectives targeting greater sustainability, safety, security, simplification and digitalization.
