Mediterranean States are examining the possible designation of the entire Mediterranean Sea as a Nitrogen Oxides Emission Control Area (Med NOx ECA), where stricter limits on NOx emissions from ships will apply.
A regional experts' meeting on the issue was organized in Lija, Malta (18-19 November) by the Regional Marine Pollution Emergency Response Centre for the Mediterranean Sea (REMPEC) through IMO's Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP).
More than 40 representatives from 20 Mediterranean countries and several international organizations reviewed REMPEC's draft Final Technical and Feasibility Study, which assesses environmental, health, technical, and economic implications of a potential NOx ECA. The study, co-financed by IMO, France, and the Mediterranean Trust Fund is intended to support a future submission to IMO.
Participants highlighted the expected benefits of reducing NOx emissions, including improved air quality and public health, and discussed compliance options, possible implementation timelines, and lessons learned from the Med SOx ECA, which entered into effect earlier this year. They underscored the need for coordinated regional action, harmonized regulations, and continued capacity-building.
The meeting agreed to forward several recommendations to the next REMPEC Focal Points Meeting in 2027, including calls for the urgent ratification and implementation of the MARPOL Annex VI treaty (which sets limits on air pollution from ships) and endorsement of the Technical and Feasibility Study. Participants also requested continued technical and financial assistance for countries needing support.
REMPEC will now consolidate the meeting's outcomes to inform the next steps in decision-making by the Mediterranean Action Plan of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP/MAP), which coordinates regional activities to protect the marine environment.
