Accidental or deliberate marine pollution: hydrocarbons or harmful substances, community framework for cooperation

PURPOSE : This proposal for a Council Decision seeks to establish a Community framework for co-operation in the field of accidental marine pollution. CONTENT : The framework for co-operation proposed by the Commission seeks to ensure better protection of the marine environment, human health and coastlines against the risks of accidental pollution at sea and operational spills by : - supporting and supplementing Member States' efforts at national, regional and local level aiming to improve their capabilities for response in case of incidents involving oil or other harmful substances and also to contribute to lessening the risks; - creating the conditions for and facilitating efficient mutual assistance and co-operation between Member States in this field; - establishing and maintaining within this framework a Community Information System with the purpose of exchanging data for preparedness for and response to accidental marine pollution.�