The European response to the Prestige accident has created a political storm between commercial and public interests. States are making rush decisions to prove they can handle environmental threats in what they perceive an effective manner.

Passing individual laws, such as Spain's banning of single-hull tankers, is unfortunate in the sense that not enough time has been allowed to analyse the consequences of such a decision. Some European states tend to neglect the fact that shipping is an international business which means new restrictions might affect not only that particular business segment, but society at large.
The European Commission (EC) has proposed to ban the transport of heavy fuel oil on single-hull vessels above 600 dwt. Consequence analyses done by OCIMF and Clarkson show that if this proposal is approved by the EU, only five vessels in Europe will meet the requirements, resulting in a Scottish and French coastline without fuel.

The credibility of Europe's elected bodies will fade if they don't put on the brakes and make use of the knowledge already existing in shipping. By neglecting the other players in this business, the politicians are turning their back on all the good work that has been achieved, specifically within IMO, and are closing the door to any further dialogue with the industry. This might add more damage to society than any Erika or Prestige disaster ever can do.
In this climate, class societies must be willing to stand up and fight for what we believe. We can no longer afford to hide behind rules and limited access when storms gather. We must accept the responsibility that comes with our unique role in improving quality and safety in shipping.

Helge Dag Tangen
Regional Manager
Maritime Northern Europe and Africa