Evaluation of the Wadden Sea Particularly sensitive Sea Area. On behalf of the Common Wadden Sea Secretariat.

The purpose of this document is to present the high level outcomes for the evaluation of the effectiveness of the Wadden Sea PSSA, seven years after its designation by the IMO. Key changes with regard to IMO and EU shipping policy are identified and described, followed by a review of ‘expert’ opinion focused on the issues relating to PSSAs. The development of an evaluative framework and the resulting findings are introduced and discussed in context. Using existing data against this evaluative framework we conclude that six key elements require action in order to fully describe the efficacy of the designation, and our recommendations to address these concerns are presented.<br/

Measures to reduce discharges and emissions

Discharges and \ue9missions from shipping can be reduced through different technical measures, many of which apply similar principies, e.g., filtration or absorption. Ballast water treatment systems can be used to limit the spread of invasive species. Selective catalytic reduction units and exhaust gas recirculation can be used to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions, and scrubbers and diesel particulate filters can be used to reduce sulphur dioxide and particle emissions. The restoration or remediation of natural environments may also be required after large oil spills. Possible remediation methods include booms, mechanical techniques and dispersant chemicals. These and several additional technical measures to reduce discharges and emissions are described in this chapter, including measures to reduce the impact of the infrastructure related to the shipping industry