Recreational craft industry: exhaust and noise emissions from boat engines (amend. Directive 94/25/EC)

The Common position maintains the approach proposed by the Commission, but takes on board some of the 42 amendments adopted by the European Parliament. Some of those amendments had also already been accepted by the Commission in its modified proposal. This approach is justified, because some modifications are of a technical nature or intended to clarify certain issues related to Directive 94/25/EC. Others deal with exhaust gas and noise emissions but for example aim to avoid unnecessary restrictions on boats intended for personal use and not put on the Community market. In some cases, provisions have been clarified in order to take account of the latest technical developments. The Commission is pleased to note that the Common Position adopted by the Council satisfies to a large extent the intention of the Commission's proposal to regulate exhaust and noise emissions from engines on recreational craft and offers very good technical solutions. The Common Position introduces the following important innovations to the original Commission proposal: - exception for craft built for own use : an exception for noise emissions regarding craft built for own use and not put on the Community market simplifies issues and avoids high costs for individuals who should not face an unnecessary burden; - definition of Boat Design Category D : this sub-paragraph includes an amended definition of Boat Design Category D, as suggested by the Task Force which has been convened by the Commission; - provisions on fire fighting equipment : the harmonised provisions on fire fighting equipment have been strengthened and clarified; - simplification of noise testing for SMEs : in order to ease the burden for SMEs, the reference boat procedure and the relevant noise tests have been complemented by the alternative of applying simple limit values; - more detailed list of possible items to be included in the Commission's report : the subject of constantly improving EU legislation in order to further reduce emissions and increase environmental protection has been strengthened by inserting detailed points for consideration in the report to be presented by the Commission to the Council and to the European Parliament.�