In line with the development of the European Union\u2019s Blue Growth objectives, which aspire to greater and sustainable use of the seas\u2019 potential, the EEA\u2019s new \u2018State of Europe\u2019s seas\u2019 report looks at whether the EU is meeting its policy goals for the quality of the marine environment.<\/p>\n
According to the report, Europe\u2019s seas don\u2019t meet the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, adopted in 2008, which aims to ensure coherence between such EU policies and sets three goals for Europe\u2019s seas: to be \u2018productive\u2019, \u2018healthy\u2019, and \u2018clean\u2019. EEA says although Europe\u2019s seas can be considered productive, they cannot be considered healthy or clean.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe need to respect the ecological boundaries of Europe\u2019s seas if we want to continue enjoying the benefits we receive. This requires aligning our policy ambitions for economic growth with our policy targets of securing healthy, clean and productive seas. Ultimately, this will entail making fundamental changes in the way we meet our societal needs\u2019, said Hans Bruyninckx, executive director, EEA.<\/p>\n
The report also looks into describing what ecosystem-based management could mean in the marine context and how to improve our knowledge, as well as considering future challenges in relation to the long-term sustainability of Europe\u2019s seas.<\/p>\n
\u201cSeas are part of our European natural capital and their protection and exploitation require a European approach. In many cases, it also requires a global approach. Our report contributes to the knowledge base needed for relevant policy discussions, currently ongoing at European and global levels,\u201d added Mr Bruyninckx.<\/p>\n
The report adds that a very limited number of assessments of marine habitats and species indicate favourable conservation status. Current pressures include, among others, physical damage to the seafloor (due to bottom-trawling in particular), introduction of non-indigenous species, nutrient input (mainly from agricultural fertilisers), hazardous substance pollution and marine litter. Climate change induced temperature increases and potential ocean acidification can further weaken the ecological resilience of Europe\u2019s Seas.<\/p>\n
EEA says a large part of the pressures arises from activities at sea, such as the extraction and production of living resources (fish, shellfish, etc.), transport and energy production, or pollution such as marine litter. Land-based activities \u2014 such as the use of agricultural fertilisers and industrial chemicals, and wastewater \u2014 also add to the pressures. <\/p>\n