on the EU Marine Strategy and the specific concerns about protecting the Baltic Sea environment

In summer 2005 the EU will adopt its first legal policy instrument on protecting the marine ecosystems. Until 9 May a public internet consultation on this important document is going on.

The European Green Party at its 2^nd Council Meeting in Latvian marine resort Jurmala, supports the positions of the Coalition Clean Baltic submitted to DG Environment in the first days of May, annexed to this resolution.

The European Green Party specifically wants to point out the importance of taking action concerning problems such as

• the advise from scientific experts (ICES) should be better taken into account when deciding upon fish quotas (TACs);
• More efficient use of chemicals and fertilizers in agriculture by modernising infrastructure (livestock housing, slurry and manure storage facilities and manure application techniques);
• spatial planning on coastal areas: full application of Espoo Convention requirements for planned harbour and coastal infrastructure;
• Ban on shipment of spent nuclear fuel and radioactive wastes via waterways
• Introducing proper Vessel Traffic Monitoring and Information System; 

The Baltic Sea is not dead or dying, but it is a sea in big trouble today. We call the Green/EFA group of the European Parliament to keep an eye on the process of drafting the EU Marine Strategy and relevant Marine Framework Directive to make it as strong and binding legal document as possible