Strategic issues - European Union

The article presents various strategic issues concerning European Union. A recent Eurobarometer survey has revealed that nearly three-quarters of respondents think the EU should propose additional measures to address water problems in Europe. The new rules propose a system of survey, certification and authorization for large commercial seagoing vessels that fly the flag of an EU Member State, covering their whole life cycle from construction to operation and recycling. To ensure compliance, the proposal requires ship- owners to report to national authorities when they intend to send a ship for recycling. It is hoped that by being able to compare the list of ships which have been issued an inventory certificate with the list of ships recycled in authorized facilities, authorities will be able to identify illegal recycling more easily. Under the Large Combustion Plants Directive, Malta agreed to operate its Marsa power station for no more than 20,000 hours and to close it no later than 2015.