DG Environment

The European Framework

Environment is a key component of the Integrated Maritime Policy (IMP) and the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), adopted in 2008.

The main goal of the MSFD is to achieve "Good Environmental Status" (GES) of all marine waters of the European Union by 2020: The decision under Article 9 (3) MSFD on criteria of good environmental status addresses marine litter in descriptor 10 and aims at achieving that "Properties and quantities of marine litter do not cause harm to the coastal and marine environment".

The success of the MSFD depends largely on the effective integration of marine environmental concerns in EU legislation and policies. The MSFD aims to achieve this by providing a long-term policy view of the seas and enhanced cooperation in marine regions and internationally.

http://ec.europa.eu/environment/water/marine/pollution.htm

DG MARE (Maritime Affairs and Fisheries)

European Fisheries Fund

The European fisheries fund (EFF) provides funding to the fishing industry and coastal communities to help them adapt to changing conditions in the sector and become economically resilient and ecologically sustainable.