Oil Spills from Shipping: A Case Study of the Governance of Accidental Hazards and Intentional Pollution in the Baltic Sea

Abstract

Despite most tankers being more technically safe than in the past, the increasing volume of transportation probably outweighs most, if not all, technical safety gains. Two major types of threats to the Baltic Sea environment caused by oil pollution are discussed in this chapter: accidental and intentional spills. It is shown that individual countries or coalitions have influenced governance outcomes in both areas. The introduction of double hull regulations by IMO was speeded up significantly by unilateral action taken by the USA and the EU. The move towards differentiated port controls has probably increased efficiency since it has made it possible to target substandard vessels. The Paris MoU has been important in ensuring coherent inspection practices. Intentional oil spills typically result from unlawful cleaning of tanks and engine rooms at sea. Flight surveillance and the No-Special-Fee system have been adopted to reduce oil spills. However, both mechanisms suffer from weaknesses caused by differences in countries’ capacities and priorities. Flight surveillance intensity differs significantly among HELCOM member states, which makes it possible for tankers to avoid detection. The No-Special-Fee system has been only partially effective, due to varying interests and capacities of individual Baltic Sea countries, port authorities and ports.