During a meeting of the European Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries (PECH), a discussion was held on the report titled “A Multiannual Plan for the Baltic Sea and Further Actions.” The ECR Group’s shadow rapporteur, MEP Piotr Müller, emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to protecting the Baltic Sea, taking into account both environmental and social issues.
“I am pleased that the European Parliament has produced a report devoted exclusively to the Baltic Sea, which is our shared treasure. However, we must remember that the Baltic Sea is made up not only of fish and the ecosystem, but also of people—fishermen and coastal residents—who give it its identity,” said Müller.
The MEP highlighted the need to address the issue of chemical weapons left over from World War II that lie on the seabed and pose a potential environmental threat. He also called for greater support for investments in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment to reduce the inflow of pollutants into the waters of the Baltic Sea.
Müller also addressed the phenomenon of mass fishing during the winter, which can negatively impact fish populations, as well as the growing threat posed by the so-called “Shadow Fleet”—ships transporting fuel linked to Russia. “A single environmental disaster could undo decades of our efforts. That is why a decisive response from the European Union and the Baltic Sea states is needed,” he emphasized.
