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European Directives and Guidance




Seas and Oceans are not bound by political borders and so taking care of the marine environment is the responsibility of all of Europe.

Using our seas requires cooperation between European countries to manage them effectively.  

Marine pollution can travel hundreds of miles and affect other countries. So the threats facing our seas, such as litter and pollution, are the responsibility of all countries.
 
Europe creates Directives to:

  • manage the seas;
  • to protect the biodiversity; and
  • ensure its sustainable use.  

These Directives, such as the Marine Strategy Framework Directive, ensures that all European Countries are working to a common goal and cooperating with each other to achieve it.

Marine Strategy Framework Directive

04/01/13
This directive aims to protect the marine environment across Europe.
 

OSPAR

22/03/10
OSPAR is how 15 countries and the European Community cooperate to protect the marine environment of the North-East Atlantic.
 

The Birds and Habitats Directives

22/03/10
These directives establish a legal framework for protecting and conserving Europe's wildlife and habitats.
 

Water Framework Directive

22/03/10
The European Union Water Framework Directive came into force on 23 October 2000 and became UK law in 2003.