8/9/2006
Commission Proposes Environmental Strategy to Protect the Mediterranean Sea

The European Commission this week proposed a long-term environmental strategy for cleaning up the Mediterranean Sea. This unique ecosystem is deteriorating as environmental pressures increase. The major oil spill that occurred during the recent conflict in Lebanon has dramatically highlighted the vulnerability of the region's environment.

The Mediterranean's decline threatens the health of the 143 million people living on its shores as well as the long-term development of key economic sectors that depend on the sea, such as fishing and tourism.

Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas said: “We have to act for the promotion of economic development of the Mediterranean and the protection of the health of its people. This strategy aims to revitalise and strengthen cooperation between the EU, our Mediterranean neighbours. If we fail, the Mediterranean could deteriorate beyond repair."