PSSA

Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas

2017 Edition

Supplement
February 2024
Since the publication of the 2017 edition of Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas (PSSA), two new PSSAs have
been designated by adoption of two resolutions during the seventy-first and eightieth sessions of the
Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC).

Resolution MEPC.294(71) designated the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park as a PSSA, and
resolution MEPC.380(80) designated the North-western Mediterranean Sea as a PSSA. Respectively, these
will make up annex 20 and annex 21 in the next edition of this publication.

Resolution Adopts Date of entry into force Page

MEPC.294(71) Designation of the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park as a 1 January 2018 2
Particularly Sensitive Sea Area
MEPC.380(80) Designation of the North-Western Mediterranean Sea 1 January 2025 23
as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area

Copyright © International Maritime Organization 2024 (Sales number IA545E)

 MEPC 71/17/Add.1
Annex 18, page 1

ANNEX 18

RESOLUTION MEPC.294(71)
(adopted on 7 July 2017)

DESIGNATION OF THE TUBBATAHA REEFS NATURAL PARK

AS A PARTICULARLY SENSITIVE SEA AREA

THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION COMMITTEE,

RECALLING Article 38(a) of the Convention on the International Maritime Organization

concerning the functions of the Marine Environment Protection Committee conferred upon it
by international conventions for the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships,

BEING AWARE of the ecological criteria, in particular the criteria relating to uniqueness or
rarity, naturalness, diversity and fragility criteria, and the socio-economic and scientific criteria
of the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park as well as its vulnerability to damage by international
shipping activities and the steps taken by the Philippines to address that vulnerability,

NOTING the Revised Guidelines for the Identification and Designation of Particularly Sensitive
Sea Areas adopted by resolution A.982(24), as amended by resolution MEPC.267(68),
(Revised PSSA Guidelines), and the Revised Guidance Document for Submission of PSSA
Proposals to IMO set forth in MEPC.1/Circ.510,

HAVING AGREED that the criteria for the identification and designation of a Particularly
Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA) provided in the Revised PSSA Guidelines are fulfilled for the
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park,

HAVING NOTED that the Maritime Safety Committee, at its ninety-eighth session, adopted,
pursuant to SOLAS Chapter V, the establishment of an area to be avoided as an Associated
Protective Measure for the "Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Particularly Sensitive Sea Area
(PSSA) in the Sulu Sea" (SN.1/Circ.335), aimed at improving the safety of navigation and the
protection of the marine environment, and that this routeing measure will be implemented
on 1 January 2018 at 0000 hours UTC,

1 DESIGNATES the region surrounding Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, as described

in annex 1 to the present resolution, as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area;

2 INVITES Member Governments to recognize the ecological, socio-economic and

scientific criteria of the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park area, set forth in annex 2 to the present
resolution, as well as its vulnerability to damage by international shipping activities,
as described in annex 3 to the present resolution;

3 FURTHER INVITES Member Governments to note the Associated Protective

Measure established to address the area's vulnerability, the details of which are contained in
annex 4 to the present resolution.

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 MEPC 71/17/Add.1
Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 2

ANNEX 1

DESCRIPTION OF THE TUBBATAHA REEFS NATURAL PARK

PARTICULARLY SENSITIVE SEA AREA

To minimize the risk of damage from ship groundings and pollution damage by international
shipping activities and to protect the area's unique and threatened species as well as to
preserve as far as practicable its critical habitat and diversity, mariners should exercise
extreme care when navigating in the area bounded by the geographical coordinates of the
Particularly Sensitive Sea Area, provided below, and adhere to the Associated Protective
Measure set out in annex 4.

(1) 09º 17'.75 N, 119º 47'.79 E

(2) 09º 04'.73 N, 120º 12'.76 E
(3) 08º 49'.63 N, 120º 13'.99 E
(4) 08º 29'.63 N, 119º 53'.16 E
(5) 08º 36'.15 N, 119º 35'.46 E
(6) 09º 11'.06 N, 119º 36'.67 E
hence back to point (1).

(Reference charts: Philippine charts No. 4707 (INT 5052), 2nd edition, November 2010;
No. 4357, 1st edition, May 2009.

Note: These charts are issued by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority,
Philippines and based on World Geodetic System 1984 datum (WGS 84).)

Figure 1 – Chartlet showing the PSSA

ANNEX 2


The text in this annex is drawn from the Philippines' submission contained in document MEPC 69/10/1.
All references used in this resolution are set out in the annex to document MEPC 69/10/1.

JANUARY 2024 SUPPLEMENT – PSSA 2017 EDITION 3

 MEPC 71/17/Add.1
Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 3

ECOLOGICAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC CRITERIA OF THE

TUBBATAHA NATURAL REEFS PARK PARTICULARLY SENSITIVE SEA AREA

1 Introduction

1.1 The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (TRNP) is comprised of the Tubbataha Reef
complex, the Jessie Beazley Reef, and their surrounding waters, enclosed within a Core Zone
established under Republic Act No.10067. Established and maintained by the Philippine
Government since 1988, the TRNP presently encompasses an area comprised of
a 97,030 hectare "Core Zone" and a 350,000 hectare "Buffer Zone" surrounding it. It is
approximately 80 NM southeast of Puerto Princesa City, the capital of the Philippine island
province of Palawan. In 1993, it was inscribed as a World Heritage Site. The TRNP was also
inscribed in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance in 1999. Since 2009 the
Park has been designated as a national MPA through Republic Act 10067, which establishes
a 10 NM Buffer Zone around the perimeter of the Core Zone of the TRNP, see figure 1 below.

1.2 The Tubbataha Reef complex is comprised of the North and South Atolls. The North
Atoll is a large oblong-shaped reef platform 2 km wide and enclosing a sandy lagoon
some 24 m deep. The seaward face of the reef is comprised of steep and often perpendicular
walls extending to a depth of 40 to 50 m. The South Atoll is a small triangular reef up to
approximately 1 NM wide. It also consists of a shallow platform enclosing a sandy lagoon.
The North and South Atolls are separated by a 5 NM channel. Each atoll has an islet
associated with it: the Bird Islet in the North Atoll and the South Islet in the South Atoll. Bird Islet
serves as an internationally significant nesting site for birds and marine turtles. South Islet is a
coralline-sand cay of approximately 800 square metres, and is also used as a nesting site.
Jessie Beazley Reef is 13 NM north of the two atolls. It extends some 640 m in a north-westerly
direction, and is approximately 137 m wide. A small hill of broken coral stands at the centre of
the reef about 1.8 m high devoid of vegetation. At low water, the reef bares over a considerable
area. A small number of birds will sometimes land on the bare parts of the reef. A white sand
cay is readily visible by day from a distance of 3 to 5 NM.

Figure 1 – Map highlighting the 10 NM Buffer Zone around the TRNP

The Reef Ecosystem in the TRNP


The text in this annex is drawn from the Philippines' submission contained in document MEPC 69/10/1.
All references used in this resolution are set out in the annex to document MEPC 69/10/1.

4 JANUARY 2024 SUPPLEMENT – PSSA 2017 EDITION

 MEPC 71/17/Add.1
Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 4

1.3 Atolls like those in the Tubbataha Reef complex are formed when living corals
colonize the edges of seamounts or volcanoes. As the volcano gradually sinks underwater,
corals reaching for sunlight grow upward toward the sea surface, building on top of thick layers
of coral reefs. The Park thus includes extensive reef flats and perpendicular walls reaching
over 100 m depth, as well as large areas of deep sea.

1.4 The TRNP's North and South Atolls each have two principal but very different habitats:
(1) the outer reef slopes, and (2) the lagoon. The outer reef slopes have very clear water,
strong wave action and currents, high oxygen and low nutrient contents, and a very wide depth
range from about 1 m to over 40 m. The lagoons have turbid water, little wave action or
currents, lower oxygen and higher nutrient content, higher temperatures than surrounding
waters, and a much more restricted depth range of from less than 1 to 25 m. The outer reef
slopes have much greater coral diversity than the lagoon, and consequently much higher
values in terms of biodiversity, biological productivity, and tourism potential.

1.5 The TRNP is universally important because it is one of the world's few remaining
examples of a highly diverse near-pristine coral reef. It is located within the Coral Triangle
(figure 2), the centre of global coral biological diversity that is also a region of high fishing
pressure. The TRNP is an important source of fish, coral, and decapod larvae that enrich
fisheries in the greater Sulu Sea area, including the surrounding Philippine islands and their
coastal waters. Its huge assemblages of fish and corals attract scuba divers from around the
world and provide opportunity for tourism. It is also a living laboratory with an enormous
potential to contribute to educational and scientific advancement. These factors make the
protection of the TRNP more critical to science and the regional economy.

Figure 2: Map of the Coral Triangle

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 MEPC 71/17/Add.1
Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 5

General

1.6 As a marine protected area with coral reefs, small islets, and large sea spaces,
the TRNP simultaneously evinces multiple criteria for PSSA designation. This part indicates
the presence of all these criteria within the Park's boundaries. As a general rule, the ecological,
socio-economic, and scientific values apply across the entire TRNP, especially with respect to
marine life, habitat, and human uses. Certain values related to its terrestrial components are
naturally localized and concentrated, but overall, the pristine conditions of their surrounding
waters and the entire Park also ensure sustainability of the environmental conditions that make
such localized areas viable. The various criteria for PSSA designation are as acutely
intertwined as are the various components of the TRNP ecosystem.

2 Ecological criteria

Uniqueness or rarity

2.1 TRNP is one of the last few remaining examples in the world of a highly diverse,
near-pristine coral reef complex in an offshore area located far from human settlements.
The great distance from population centres and separation by deep waters from inhabited
landmasses have protected TRNP's reefs from degradation and destruction due to
over-exploitation associated with many other near-shore reef systems in the Philippines
(UNESCO 2008; UNESCO 1992). TRNP is the largest and only atoll reef complex enclosed
within the Philippine archipelago. Its high levels of biodiversity and abundant biological
productivity are unmatched by any other coral reef in the country (Alino et al. 2002). It stands
out as the most intact and diverse of all of the marine reserves in the Philippines (IUCN 2009;
UNESCO 1992; Arquiza 1990). It has been referred to as the "crown jewel" of Philippine marine
protected areas and biodiversity conservation priorities (UNESCO 2013). It is also the only
purely offshore or marine World Heritage Site in Southeast Asia today (Aquino et al. 2011).

Critical habitat

2.2 The entire TRNP is home to significant populations of critical endangered species of
marine flora and fauna. It hosts considerable assemblages of marine life equal to, if not
surpassing, coral reef sites of the same size around the world. It contains 401 out
of 461 species of hard corals (zooxanthellatescieractinians) found in the Philippine waters
(TMO 2003). More than 600 species of fish have been compiled from various fish surveys in
the TRNP, which include protected species of fish such as the Humphead Wrasse (Cheilinus
undulates) (TMO 2015). Endangered species of mollusks like the Topshells (Trachusniloticus),
Clams (Tridacna sp.), Tridacnid clams such as crocus clam (Tridacnacrosea), giant clam
(T. gigas), scaly clam (T. squamosal), and horse's hoof clam (Hipopushippopus) are found in
some parts of the lagoons (Dolorosa 2010; Ledesma et al. 2008; UNESCO 1992). Significant
numbers of critically endangered marine turtles are found and have their nesting/breeding
grounds in the TRNP. Two species of the highly endangered marine turtles, the Green Sea
Turtle (Cheloniamydas) and the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmachelysimbricata), nest in the islets
and use the Park as a developmental stage habitat (Cruz and Torres 2005). Thirteen species
of cetaceans (dolphins and whales) and twelve species of sharks have been identified as Park
inhabitants. Marine scientists have established that the Sulu Sea is part of the migratory range
of the endangered whaleshark (Rhincodontypus) (Eckert et al. 2002). TRNP also supports the
highest population densities known to date for white-tip reef sharks (Triaenodonobesus)
(Walker & Palomar-Abesamis, 2005). Sightings of white-tip sharks, black-tip sharks
(Carcharinusmelanopterus), and eagle rays are common (IUCN 2009).

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 6

2.3 TRNP is one of the few diverse strongholds or rookeries of seabirds in the Philippines
and Southeast Asia. (Jensen 2009) Its remoteness and protected status make it critical to the
continued existence of seabirds in the Philippines. A total of 109 species of birds, both resident
and migrant, have been recorded on the islets and cay of the Park. These include species like
the brown boobies (Sula leucogaster), red-footed boobies (Sula sula), sooty tern
(Onychoprionfuscatus) and crested tern (Thalasseusbergii), as well as the Philippine
sub-species of Black Noddy (Anousminutusworcestri), found nowhere else in the world
(Aquino et al. 2011). TRNP is the last known major breeding place of the Black Noddy
(Anousminutusworcestri). It is also one of only four remaining breeding areas for the Sooty
Tern (Fuscatanubilosa), the other three being North Borneo, the Paracel Islands, and
Layang-layang Island in Malaysia. It is also the last known breeding area for the Masked Booby
(Sula dactylatrapersonata) (Jensen 2009; Heegard and Jensen 1992; Wells 1991).
Eight species of seabirds have been observed to have resided and bred in the Tubbataha Reef
islets. Most of these seabirds have disappeared from their natural roosts in the Sulu Sea and
other parts of the Philippines; they can be found only in the Park (Jensen 2009).

Dependency

2.4 Coral reefs comprise less than 1% of the Earth's surface and less than 2% of the
ocean bottom. Despite this scarcity, they support a quarter of all species found in the ocean
(SMNH 2013). Hence, as a general rule, many forms of marine life are directly dependent on
the existence of coral reef systems. It may be surmised that such systems would be very
important for life in semi-enclosed sea areas like the Sulu Sea. The TRNP plays a fundamental
role in the process of reproduction, dispersal and colonization of marine life in the Sulu Sea
(Campos et al. 2008). The northeast monsoon encourages the transport of larvae towards the
Balabac Strait and the opposite monsoon winds transport larvae towards the southwest, to the
Cagayancillo Islands and beyond. Internal wave patterns have been observed moving in a
westerly direction, towards the eastern coast of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, and vice versa
to the Cagayan de Sulu area, bringing with it marine larvae that enhances fisheries productivity
in these localities (Villanoy et al. 2003). One of the very few coral formations in the middle of
the Sulu Sea, TRNP functions as a natural fish aggregating area that attracts, sustains, and
disperses various marine organisms that depend on the reef's general overall health for their
survival. (Campos et al. 2008) As such it performs a major natural role in support of marine
biological productivity and sustainability of fisheries in and around the Sulu Sea. TRNP plays
a vital role in the stocking of fisheries in the Sulu Sea and adjacent Philippine waters, thus
producing much of the region's wealth of fisheries. Oceanographic studies (Villanoy et al. 2003)
and larval dispersal investigations (Campos et al. 2008) demonstrate that ocean currents in
the Sulu Sea support the distribution of fish, corals, and decapod larvae to the surrounding
islands. The Sulu Sea, of which TRNP is part, is also critical to the emigration of commercially
important fish species from reserves like Tubbataha Reef to adjacent areas
(DeVantier et al. 2004).

2.5 Aside from the six resident species of seabirds on the islets, TRNP is regularly visited
by the Christmas Island Frigate (Fregata Andrewsi), a critically-endangered species of which
less than 3000 individuals are believed to exist in the world. This foreign species likewise
benefits from the protection of TRNP since the Park forms part of its range (Jensen 2009).

2.6 TRNP is one of the elements of the Tri-national Sea Turtle Network of Protected Areas
in the Sulu-Sulawesi Marine Ecoregion (MRF 2008). This MPA contributes the largest no-take
area in the Philippines' total marine no-take areas (Weeks et al. 2009).

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 MEPC 71/17/Add.1
Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 7

Representativeness

2.7 TRNP contains excellent examples of pristine and near-pristine reefs with a high
density of marine life, a spectacular 100 m perpendicular wall, an almost undisturbed reef crest
and reef edge, extensive lagoons with seagrass beds and coral beds, and two coral islands
(UNESCO 2015a; UNESCO 1992). The Tubbataha Reefs complex is among the
best-documented examples of diverse and concentrated coral atoll systems in Southeast Asia
(UNESCO 1994; White 1991). This is among the reasons why TRNP is part of the Palawan
Biosphere Reserve, one of two biosphere reserves designated in 1990 under the UNESCO
Man and Biosphere Programme (UNESCO 2015b). It is also the largest MPA in the Philippines,
and its Core Zone represents 65% of the most highly protected waters of the country
(Ong et al. 2002).

Diversity

2.8 The reef complex contains a diverse coral assemblage, with species representing 80
of the 111 coral genera found worldwide. There are endemic coral species found only in the
lagoons, most notable of which are 30 species previously unreported in the Philippines
(Fenner 2001). TRNP contains 374 species of corals representing almost 90% of all species
in the Philippines and about 80% of all coral species in the Sulu-Sulawesi Seas
(UNESCO 2015a; TPAMB 2014). Several distinct physiographic zones are discerned on the
reefs. The deep stretches of the steep drop-off show foliose or plate-like forms of Pachyseries,
Leptoseris, and Montipora at 20-30 m depth. At 12-20 m depth, massive Diploastrea, Platygyra
and Porites are found. The reef edge is an Acropora zone with branching Montipora,
Pocillopora, Porites, and some faviids, and extends to a reef slope of similar composition.
The reef flats consist mainly of A. hyacinthus, Pocillopora, Millepora, and some faviids. Porites
"micro-atolls" and branched Porites characterize the back-reef areas (UNESCO 1992).

2.9 A very high diversity of fish species has been recorded with 600 species in at
least 40 families. Among the reasons cited by UNESCO for inscription of TRNP as a World
Heritage Site was the exceptional diversity of corals and fish, particularly pelagic fish species
such as jacks, tuna, barracuda, and sharks (UNESCO 1992). Forty-five species of benthic
macroalgae and four species of microalgae are found, and extensive seagrass beds grow in
the shallower parts of the lagoon. The four dominant species are Thalassiahemprichii,
Halophiliaovalis, Haloduleuninervis, and H. Pinifolia (UNESCO 1992).

Productivity

2.10 Fish biomass in TRNP is estimated to be as much as 200 metric tons per square
kilometre in the last decade, the highest in the country. It is far higher than the average biomass
of healthy reefs elsewhere in the Philippines, which is estimated to be from 35-40 metric tons
per square kilometre (TMO 2014). The very high fish biomass estimates in TRNP translates to
more larvae that serve to seed degraded fishing grounds surrounding the Sulu Sea.
The productivity of TRNP therefore is linked to the productivity of the Sulu Sea and surrounding
waters.

Spawning or breeding grounds

2.11 TRNP is a major source and sink of larvae in the Sulu Sea. Larval dispersal
simulations show that within a 12-month period, TRNP broadcasts larvae into most of the
fishing areas in the Sulu Sea (Campos et al. 2008). As stated above, various threatened or
critically endangered species such as marine turtles, seabirds, sharks, and molluscs also
spawn or breed within the TRNP.

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 8

Naturalness

2.12 Marine life in TRNP thrives on account of its being relatively undisturbed for hundreds
of years, due to its remote location and inaccessibility. Weather conditions limit access to the
Park, so that tourism activities can be controlled and conducted only three months every year,
from mid-March to mid-June. The Park is otherwise left in its natural condition for the rest of
the year, and is free from human habitation except for the 8-12 Park Rangers in residence in
a centrally located ranger station that stands watch over the MPA. The remote and undisturbed
character of the TRNP and the continued presence of large marine fauna such as tiger sharks,
cetaceans and marine turtles, large schools of pelagic fish such as barracuda and trevallies
add to the ecological and aesthetic qualities of the TRNP (UNESCO 1992). For this reason,
The UNESCO designated the TRNP as a World Heritage Site in 1993. It is the first such site
in the Philippines, having been approved for inscription for satisfying three of the four criteria
for World Heritage Sites. The criteria included the fact that TRNP contained "superlative natural
phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance," "outstanding
examples representing significant ongoing ecological and biological processes in the evolution
and development of terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities
of plants and animals," and "most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ
conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of
outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation" (UNESCO 2008;
UNESCO 1992).

Integrity

2.13 The TRNP comprises the North and South Atolls and the Jessie Beazley Reef.
It includes open sea areas with an average depth of 750 m and contains a well-preserved
marine ecosystem with top predators, a large number and diversity of coral, as well as pelagic
and demersal fish species. It is of sufficient size to maintain associated biological and
ecological processes; this also ensures the complete representation of the key features and
processes of the reef ecosystems within it. The low level of fishing pressure, due to the no-take
policy in place throughout the park, is key to maintaining its integrity. However, maintenance
of ecosystem values within the TRNP requires measures to be taken outside the TRNP
boundaries, in relation to some migratory species and to create a buffer from threats to the
marine environment that could occur in the wider area.

2.14 Compared with other Philippine reefs, the corals of TRNP have recovered well from
the bleaching events, the most serious of which took place in 1998 resulting in 21% loss of
coral cover. The reefs recovered faster than in locations where human activity was intense.
Scientists suspect the protected status of the reefs allows it to better recover from one stress
because they do not have to deal with other stresses such as pollution and fishing
(Francisco et al. 2008). The corals' resilience is a sign that TRNP has been able to maintain
its integrity despite the onset of environmental stressors. Well-connected reef systems usually
take 10 to 20 years to fully re-establish after a massive disturbance (Fabricius et al. 2007).

Fragility

2.15 Coral reefs like those in the TRNP are fragile ecosystems to begin with; they require
a delicate balance of environmental conditions to survive and thrive. The existence of a coral
ecosystem may be threatened by changes to even one of those environmental conditions.
Corals grow very slowly, with the fastest growing species expanding by more than 6 inches
(15 cm) per year. Most corals grow less than an inch per year (SMNH 2013). This slow growth
contributes to the vulnerability of the reefs to natural and man-made damage or disaster.
Thus, even brief changes in water quality (e.g. turbidity, salinity, acidity) could threaten the
very survival of coral reefs. For this reason, corals are considered a threatened species.

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 MEPC 71/17/Add.1
Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 9

The health of most reefs across the region is in decline as a result of human exploitation
(CRA 2014). It has been suggested that one third of reef-building coral species are under
elevated threat of extinction due to human impacts and climate change (Carpenter et al. 2008).
Shipping activities may generate low-level but constant impacts that accumulate over time,
such as operational pollution, as well as introduce risks of occasional or accidental impacts
such as large oil or chemical spills that may be relatively brief but potentially catastrophic.

2.16 Climate change impacts increase the vulnerability of coral reefs to degradation.
It negatively affects sea surface temperatures, which are suspected to be the cause of "coral
bleaching" where live coral in the sea die prematurely, leaving white coral reef skeletons.
Extreme environmental conditions such as warmer-than-usual waters, combined with
man-made accidental pollution events, could push coral reefs beyond the limits of their
biological resilience and result in their destruction in a short period of time. As demonstrated
by the coral bleaching event in 1998 resulting in 21% loss of coral cover, TRNP is already
close to the limits of its ability to recover from natural stresses. Coincidence with
human-induced stresses arising from shipping activities is thus a major risk at present.

Bio-geographic importance

2.17 TRNP is located at the apex of the Coral Triangle, the richest biogeographic region in
the world, home to the highest concentration of marine species on the planet. The Coral
Triangle, often called "the Amazon of the Seas", is home to 600 corals or 76% of the world's
known coral species. It contains the highest reef fish diversity with 2,500 or 37% of the world's
reef fish (CTI 2015). As a result, TRNP is considered to be "extremely high" on the list of marine
conservation priority areas of the final report of the Philippine Biodiversity Conservation
Priorities Project implemented by the government with foreign development assistance to
support the long-term planning and rationalization of Philippine environmental conservation
efforts. It is also ranked as "very high" on the list of conservation priority areas for birds, reef
fishes, corals, molluscs, seagrass, elasmobranches, and turtles (Ong et al. 2002).
The convergence of the ranges of multiple terrestrial, marine, and aerial species (as noted
above) within the Park make it an ideal and strategic location for environmental conservation
and protection, with expected associated impacts extending not only to other areas of the
Philippine archipelago but to the rest of the Southeast Asian region as well.

3 Social, cultural and economic criteria

Social or economic dependency

3.1 The TRNP makes direct contributions to the national and local economy through
tourism revenues generated from scuba divers, and has been ranked as the eighth best diving
destination worldwide (CNN 2012). Indirect contributions are derived to the fisheries by
functioning as a habitat and source of larvae. The total economic value of TRNP based on
tourism revenues and larvae contributions for fisheries is estimated at over $6 million annually,
while values derived from non-use or simply serving as a protected habitat has been estimated
at $2.5 to 4.8 million (Subade 2007).

Human dependency

3.2 The TRNP is a key source of coral and fish larvae, seeding the greater Sulu Sea.
It has a decisive role in sustaining the fisheries in surrounding areas, directly providing food
and livelihood for hundreds of thousands of Filipinos (Campos et al. 2008). The Philippines
has nearly 2 million people who are dependent on fisheries for their livelihood (BFAR 2012).
This relatively small ecological contribution translates into more substantial benefits for the
human population. The TRNP is a source of fish larvae whose benefits extend beyond its

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 10

borders, and is the source of municipal/artisanal fishers and commercial fishers in areas
outside the Park (Campos et al. 2008). Larvae dispersal to the surrounding area is estimated
to be worth almost $3 million (Subade 2007). The inhabitants of the isolated island Municipality
of Cagayancillo are directly dependent on fishing in their municipal waters, which are in turn
dependent on the productivity of the TRNP. Cagayanon fishermen once reported that fish
catch in their waters doubled in the three years since the establishment of the no-take policy
of the TRNP, indicating that management of the fisheries in the Park area benefits
neighbouring areas as well (UNESCO 2008; Cola 2008).

3.3 On a larger scale, strong wind variations from the Mindoro Strait, Balabac Strait, and
Sulu archipelago create upwelling and downwelling events that affect primary productivity and
the concentration or distribution of fish and other marine life. The predominantly westward
movement of ocean currents in the Sulu Sea transport fish eggs and larvae to the eastern
coast of Palawan; this ensures the sustainability of fisheries in mainland Palawan
(Villanoy et al. 2003).

Cultural heritage

3.4 On account of its remoteness and extremely limited land area, the Park does not
contain significant historical and/or archaeological sites. The few shipwreck sites located within
the Park boundaries to date serve only as dive sites, and have not been the subject of marine
historical or archaeological studies.

4 Scientific and education criteria

Research

4.1 Scientists, especially biologists, oceanographers and geologists have been

fascinated by the manner of reef formation in the Sulu Sea and by its high biodiversity in terms
of species numbers and habitat types. They consider these reefs to be prime research and
experimental sites because they are associated either with emergent islands or islets, or with
submerged structures. The TRNP's unique position in the middle of the sea and interactions
between the atolls and surrounding marine ecosystem make it an ideal laboratory for the study
of ecological and biological processes, in particular larval dissemination and fish recruitment.
The TRNP offers marine researchers an opportunity to discover and study the biology and
ecology of marine ecosystems at various spatial scales. Subjects for study could vary from
minute plankton to the large marine mammals and apex species (TMO 2015). Scientific interest
in the Tubbataha Reef complex has been increasing. During the 1980s, only five
commissioned studies were conducted in the area, starting in 1982. In the following decade
there were ten. Between 2000 and 2006, the number of studies had increased
to 25 (Conservation International, 2006). At present, 31 studies are available online directly
from the Tubbataha Management Office (TMO 2015b); these do not include many others
published in scientific journals and in print.

Baseline for monitoring studies

4.2 Corals support numerous reef inhabitants and are thereby considered to be a key
measure of reef habitat quality and quantity (Bruno and Selig 2007). Being separated from
land by deep water, TRNP is relatively free from land-based sources of pollution and as such
forms a unique area for scientific study and comparison with other areas in the Coral Triangle.

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Education

4.3 TRNP is a living laboratory for the study of marine ecological processes and climate
change adaptation. As part of the Palawan Biosphere Reserve of the UNESCO Man and
Biosphere Programme, TRNP is considered a "Science for Sustainability support site," or a
special place for testing interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and managing changes
and interactions between social and ecological systems. Each reserve promotes solutions to
reconcile biodiversity conservation with sustainable use (UNESCO 2015b).

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 12

ANNEX 3

VULNERABILITY TO DAMAGE BY INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING ACTIVITIES

1 Vessel traffic characteristics

Operational factors

1.1 The vicinity of TRNP is regularly visited by passenger boats carrying scuba divers into
the Park and fishing vessels conducting fishing operations outside the Core Zone. Passenger
boats voyaging into the TRNP are strictly regulated by the Tubbataha Management Office and
must call on the ranger station before proceeding to the designated dive sites (TMO 2008).
Such boats are usually smaller kinds of boats and yachts. On the other hand, fishing vessels
are often wooden vessels domestically registered, operating from other parts of the country.
Management of the TRNP for the most part has effectively kept domestic fishing activity out of
the Core Zone, which is designated as a "no-take" area. Fishing operations take place mainly
in the Buffer Zone (TPAMB 2014). Both commercial fishers and small-scale Filipino fishers use
fish aggregating devices called payao to attract valuable pelagic fish (TPAMB 2014).
These types of fish aggregating devices normally involve buoys or floats with clusters of
material, floating just beneath the sea surface, and anchored to the seabed with rope or chain.
They may pose navigational hazards due to the possibility of entanglement with propellers of
passing ships if they are run over. In addition, foreign poachers engaged in illegal fishing have
often been found, and boats of local fishers collecting valuable topshells have been seen
entering the Park at night (TPAMB 2014). Given the illegality of their activity, poachers
surreptitiously entering, operating in, or exiting the Park area may pose collision hazards.

1.2 There has been only one instance to date where the Philippine Government issued a
petroleum exploration contract with an area that included parts of the TRNP. This contract has
not been implemented as of the time of this application, and the TPAMB has requested the
Department of Energy to exclude the area of the TRNP from the said contract (TPAMB 2014).

Vessel types

1.3 Satellite AIS-based data, procured via NORAD and analysed and processed by the
Australian Maritime Safety Authority, for the 12-month period from October 2012 to
September 2013 show numerous and varied ships passing the TRNP at varied distances.
Cargo ships constitute the absolute majority (approx. 70%) of such vessels, followed by
tankers (approx. 10%) and other types of ships (approx. 18%). These do not include ships not
equipped by AIS, particularly numerous smaller domestic vessels. Available data indicate that
at minimum, total vessel traffic passing in proximity of the TRNP Core Zone may be
categorized in table 1.


The text in this annex is drawn from the Philippines' submission contained in document MEPC 69/10/1.
All references used in this resolution are set out in the annex to document MEPC 69/10/1.

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MEPC 71/17/Add.1
Annex 18, page 13

Distance from TRNP Core Zone

Type 20 NM 30 NM 40 NM 50 NM
Cargo 2,225 2,645 2,922 3,152
Fishing 1 1 1 1
Passenger 6 6 10 11
Tanker 288 349 397 442
Other 591 709 778 845
TOTAL 3,111 3,710 4,108 4,451

Table 1: Total number and types of ships that passed within certain
distances from the TRNP Core Zone between October 2012 and
September 2013

Traffic characteristics

1.4 TRNP lies at the intersection of north-south and east-west shipping routes that
traverse the Sulu Sea, connecting the South China Sea to the Celebes Sea and to the
Pacific Ocean respectively. At least 4,451 AIS-equipped vessels passed within 50 NM around
the TRNP, the majority (some 75%) along the north-south route that connects Northeast Asia
with Oceania. Traffic passing along the North-South route is described below likewise in terms
of distance from the TRNP Core Zone, set out in table 2, below.

Distance from TRNP Core Zone

Type 20 NM 30 NM 40 NM 50 NM
Cargo 2,100 2,470 2,715 2,882
Fishing 1 1 1 1
Passenger 4 4 7 8
Tanker 198 237 270 291
Other 524 625 689 735
TOTAL 2,827 3,337 3,682 3,917

Table 2: Number and types of ships that passed within certain distances
from the TRNP Core Zone, along the North-South routes, between
October 2012 and September 2013

1.5 North of the Sulu Sea, ships passing along the North-South route pass into/out of the
area through the Mindoro and Tablas Passages astride the Philippine island Province of
Mindoro, converging/diverging east of the TRNP (refer to figure 1, below). A significant
proportion pass within 10 NM of the Core Zone, i.e. through the TRNP Buffer Zone. This is
consistent with actual observations using partial radar coverage from the TRNP ranger station,
which has recorded multiple transits of vessels within the Buffer Zone between 2010-2013.
These ships then pass out/into the area via the Sibutu Passage.

1.6 International maritime traffic through the Sulu Sea on this route likely connect major
ports in the Philippine island of Luzon (e.g. Manila, Batangas) and Northeast Asia with ports in
Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and Australia.

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Annex 18, page 14 Resolution MSC.294(71)

1.7 Traffic passing along the East-West route is distributed as follows, likewise in terms
of distance from the TRNP Core Zone – refer to table 3, below.

Figure 1: Traffic density plot of ships travelling along North-South routes

near the TRNP

Distance from TRNP Core Zone

Type 20 NM 30 NM 40 NM 50 NM
Cargo 178 265 350 490
Fishing 0 0 0 0
Passenger 4 4 7 7
Tanker 105 138 167 208
Other 97 130 150 192
TOTAL 384 537 674 897

Table 3: Number and types of ships passing within certain distances from
the TRNP Core Zone, along the East-West routes, between October 2012
and September 2013

1.8 Ships passing along the East-West route enter/exit the Sulu Sea through the
Balabac Strait; those that traverse through the Bohol Sea are brought in proximity of the
southern portion of the TRNP (see figure 2). Compared with ships on the North-South route,
less numbers of vessels cross into the Buffer Zone around the TRNP.

1.9 International maritime traffic through the Sulu Sea on this East-West route likely call
on major Philippine ports of Cebu and Iloilo from other ports in the Far East. The proportion of
vessels that continue on through the archipelago and out by the Surigao Strait from this area
is significantly less.

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 15

Figure 2: Traffic density plot of ships travelling along the East-West route
near the TRNP

Harmful substances carried

1.10 The significant proportion of chemical and oil tankers passing within 10 NM of the
TRNP Core Zone is a cause for concern. A closer examination of the AIS data show that
shipping routes running through the east and west of the Park bring vessels in closest proximity
to the TRNP Core Zone. Data indicates that the major route is to the east, with more
than 774 vessels passing along a north-south route within 7.5 NM of the Park. This included
89 chemical tankers (11.49%) and 185 oil tankers (23.9%). Several thousand vessels pass
annually along this north-south route further offshore. To the west of the Park, some
165 vessels including 31 chemical tankers (18.7%) and 46 oil tankers (27.9%) travelled
within 9 NM of the Park along another north-south route.

1.11 The threat of oil and chemical pollution and potential catastrophic impact on coral
reefs is well known. With oil and chemical tankers passing so close to the TRNP, there is a
significant risk of accidental spills and even grounding on the reefs. Notably, the two
successive ship-grounding incidents that took place in 2013 (the USS Guardian in January
and the Min Ying Pu in March) were both travelling along north-south routes.

2 Natural factors

Hydrographical

2.1 The TRNP is located in a region of the Sulu Sea of varied depth ranging from 1,490
to 2,769 m. Charts indicate that the Tubbataha Reefs rise above these deep waters abruptly,

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 16

forming separate underwater pinnacles topped off by coral reef structures. Depths can change
radically, from 1,000 m to less than one metre within a distance of only one nautical mile around
the reefs. This steeply rising slope contributes significantly to the risk of grounding for vessels
in the area. The reefs provide little protection from strong winds and surface currents.

2.2 Hydrographic information from the Philippine Coast Pilot Guide (NAMRIA 1995)
describes all reefs within the TRNP in very clear terms as inherent dangers to navigation:

"The North and South Atoll of Tubbataha Reefs are considered to be dangerous reefs
separated by a deep channel about 5 miles wide.

The North Atoll is oblong in shape and encloses a lagoon 2 miles wide and 5 miles
long, with depths of 7.3 to 32.9 m at mud bottom. There are no passages through the
barrier reef into the lagoon; only small launches can cross the barrier reef at high tide.
Deep water is close to the outer edge of the reefs, and no anchorages are available.
North Islet, Central Islet, and a number of small black rocks are the only objects that
appear above high water. At low water, a large number of detached sand cays or
ridges, each about 91 m long and 9 to 18 m, can be seen along the entire length of
the reef. North Islet is covered with gravel and some guano.

The South Atoll is about 4.5 miles long North and South with several black rocks and
sand cays visible at high water.

South Islet is made up of loose, white sand about 1.5 m above high water, and is
protected by riprap. The 39.6 m cylindrical, steel-framed tower which used to be a
lighthouse on this islet is very prominent.

Jessie Beazley Reef, about 18 miles north of Tubbataha Reef Light, extends
about 640 m in a north-westerly direction and is about 137 m wide. At the centre of
the reef is a small hill of broken coral about 1.8 m high, devoid of vegetation. At low
water, the reef bares over a considerable area. Birds can sometimes land on the bare
parts of this reef. White sand cay is readily visible by day at a distance of 3 to 5 miles."

Meteorological

2.3 The Sulu Sea within which the TRNP is situated is a deep sea in the Southeast Asian
region located along the south western quadrant of the Philippines. It is bounded by Palawan
Island on the west, Mindoro Island to the north, Panay Island and Mindanao Island to the east,
the Sulu Archipelago to the southeast, and Borneo to the southwest. Weather and climate is
strongly influenced by the East Asian Monsoons and the seasonal migrations of the
Inter-tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO).
A north-easterly wind prevails in winter and a south-westerly wind prevails in summer, but
otherwise it is very variable during the transitional periods (Oppo et al. 2003; Latiff et al. 2014).
Sudden heavy rainfalls are known to occur appear within the Sulu Sea region, posing hazards
to shipping (Butt and Johnson, 2013).

2.4 Rough seas are present from July to October and November to March. Rainfall is
highest in the Sulu Sea from May through November. From June through September, the ITCZ
rainfall merges with the East Asian Monsoon. By October and November, the East Asian
summer monsoon rains are over, and the dry season starts in the northern SCS but reaches
its seasonal maximum in the southern SCS due to the southward position of the ITCZ
(Oppo et al. 2003). The Philippines, including the Sulu Sea, is also located within the tropical
"typhoon belt" regularly traversed by typhoons. On average, about 20 tropical cyclones
develop within the Philippine Area of Responsibility each year, of which around half make

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 17

landfall (PAGASA 2009). These disturbances periodically aggravate weather and sea
conditions in the Sulu Sea, thus sudden violent storms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds
increase the risk of navigational incidents.

Oceanographic

2.5 The Sulu Sea is a semi-enclosed basin connected to surrounding seas over shallow
sills. It is surrounded by major landmasses such as Palawan, Borneo, Mindanao, Panay,
Antique, and Mindoro, as well as connecting several bodies of Philippine waters such as the
Linapacan and Balabac Straits, the Sibuti Passage, Moro Gulf, Dipolog Strait, Bohol Sea,
Panay Gulf, and Mindoro Passage. The Mindoro Passage to the north/northwest is the deepest
passage at 420 m, connecting the Sulu Sea to the South China Sea, and with the Java Sea
across the shallow Sunda Shelf. The Sibutu Passage to the south is the next deepest passage,
connecting the Sulu Sea to the Sulawesi Sea (Oppo et al. 2003). The TRNP lies between these
two passages, which also form the entry/exit points for North-South routes traversing the Sulu
Sea. Water circulation patterns in the Sulu Sea show that there is an inflow from the South
China Sea at the Mindoro and Balabac Straits, and an outflow into the Sulawesi Sea at the
Sibutu Passage. There is a cyclonic circulation in the southern basin (Han et al. 2009). A strong
current forms in the northeast Sulu Sea where currents from the Mindoro and Tablas straits
converge. These converging currents are also entry/exit points for North-South shipping
routes. Surface current speeds have been measured to be as much as 100 cm/sec
(Han et al. 2009).

2.6 Strong westward currents in the Bohol Sea carry the surface water of the western
Pacific from the Surigao Strait into the Sulu Sea via the Dipolog straits. In the Sibuyan Sea,
currents flow west which carry the surface water from the Western Pacific near the San
Bernardino Strait into the Sulu Sea via the Tablas Strait (Han et al., 2009). Surface currents
exhibit strong variations or reversals from winter to summer, with the TRNP forming a centre
around which the currents circulate. Generally, during the South West Monsoon, waters flow
in a clockwise motion around the TRNP, driven by currents from the Dipolog and Linapacan
Straits (Han et al., 2009). The fact that TRNP is located at the centre of this circulation pattern
increases the possibility that any discharges or vessels adrift near TRNP will likewise be
carried around and into its boundaries.

3 Other Information

3.1 Since 2010, TRNP Park Rangers have been collecting and compiling information on
impacts of international shipping traffic around the TRNP, albeit with limited capabilities due to
the isolation and inherent limitations of surveillance capabilities of the Park Ranger Station.
Annual records have been based on personal observations of Park Rangers and extremely
limited radar coverage of the immediate vicinity of the TRNP. A review of the records of limited
radar coverage during the period from 2010-2013 echoes the upward trend of ship transit,
notably passing through the TRNP Buffer Zone. Refer table 4, below.

No. of Ships Monthly Rate of

Year
Tracked Average Increase
2010 3,358 280 -
2011 4,253 363 23%
2012 3,616 302 -20%
2013 5,546 462 35%

Table 4: Number of ships tracked by the TRNP Park Ranger Station

with extremely limited radar coverage

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 18

3.2 The upward trend in ship transits around the TRNP translates into an expected
increasing risk in shipping-related impacts, both operational and accidental. Ship groundings
have been demonstrated as the most prominent risk, followed by pollution from discharges.
A recent study of maritime trade and traffic trends in the Sulu-Sulawesi Region concluded that
all global trade forecasts indicate "higher volumes of international shipping will transit through
or close to Philippine national waters and as a consequence increase the vulnerability of the
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park". It pointed out that the potential increase in very large vessels
transiting through the area to service the ore, coal and LNG trades, and growing populations
around the Sulu-Sulawesi Region that would likely also increase import activities and the
corresponding number of vessels operating in the area, also posed significant threats.
(Butt and Johnson 2013).

3.3 A separate study that mathematically modelled ship incident risks around TRNP
corroborated the above report by concluding that "incident probabilities and monetary value at
risk (MVR) have increased in recent years; the probability of pollution in 1999-2007 increased
by about 60% for South-East Asia compared to 1979-1998, and the associated MVR for
tankers has doubled." It further noted that the increase of pollution risk close to the TRNP is
even larger (Heij et al. 2013).

3.4 Park rangers have documented a notable increase in the amount of foreign,
non-Philippine marine debris (product packaging, plastic containers) collected at the TRNP
ranger station, indicating a clear correlation between the amount of shipping traffic and the
amount of marine debris washed ashore at the park ranger station (refer to table 5, below).

Year Kg of debris collected

2010 198
2011 627
2012 635
2013 1,460

Table 5: Weight of marine debris collected annually by TRNP Park Rangers

3.5 Ship groundings have occurred on Tubbataha Reefs. Available records indicate that as
early as 1925, the British steamship Egremont Castle ran aground near the lighthouse on South
Atoll, and in June 1949, the US steamer Flying Cloud ran aground near the South Island.
Despite modern navigational technologies and accurate charting, such groundings have
continued to take place. In January 2013, the US Navy minesweeper USS Guardian ran
aground on the South Atoll and had to be completely dismantled for removal. Shortly after,
in March 2013 the Chinese fishing vessel Min Ying Pu ran aground on the North Atoll and had to
be salvaged (TPAMB 2014). These successive incidents in the TRNP have demonstrated its
continued exposure to high risks posed by international shipping activity. The increase in shipping
activity around the TRNP denotes a corresponding increase in risks of similar ship groundings.

3.6 Chemical and oil spill simulations conducted for the Tubbataha Management Office
by the Physical Oceanography Laboratory of the Marine Science Institute show that at any
given month, due to the proximity of several shipping routes around the TRNP, there is a very
high probability that pollutants from chemical or oil spills will cross into the boundaries of
the TRNP. Depending on the distance, time of year, monsoon and sea conditions, in the worst
case scenario (outside of a vessel grounding) pollutants can take as little as four hours for
chemical spills and five hours for oil spills. In the best case scenario, a chemical/oil spill threat
can take as much as 8½ days before reaching the TRNP. Again, the increasing trend in
shipping activities around the TRNP will result in a corresponding increase in risks of accidental
chemical and oil spills (Villanoy et al. 2015).

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 19

3.7 In case of a marine incident at or in the vicinity of the TRNP, there are only two
government vessels available in the nearest Coast Guard District operating base at Puerto
Princesa City, a 35 m Search and Rescue Vessel and a 30 m Fisheries Monitoring, Control,
and Surveillance patrol vessel. It will take such vessels approximately 10 hours to respond to
an incident at the TRNP, assuming that the said vessels are not being used elsewhere and
are capable of taking the stricken vessel in tow. Private salvage companies based in Manila
with dedicated salvage capability will take at least 24 hours to respond to a marine casualty or
incident in the vicinity of the TRNP. Moving the concentration of shipping away from the Park
significantly reduces the risks of incidents and may provide just enough additional time for Park
Rangers and other government agencies to prepare adequate incident response measures.

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 20

ANNEX 4

ASSOCIATED PROTECTIVE MEASURE FOR THE

TUBBATAHA REEFS NATURAL PARK PSSA

Associated Protective Measure (APM)

The newly established area to be avoided "Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park PSSA" as the APM,
is as follows:

Reference charts: Philippine charts No. 4707 (INT 5052), 2nd edition, November 2010;
No. 4357, 1st edition, May 2009

Note: These charts are issued by the National Mapping and Resource Information
Authority, Philippines and based on World Geodetic System 1984 datum
(WGS 84).

Description of the area to be avoided

An area to be avoided by all types of ships of 150 gross tonnage and upwards, in the
area designated as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area, is bounded by a line connecting
the following geographical positions:

(1) 09º 17'.75 N, 119º 47'.79 E

(2) 09º 04'.73 N, 120º 12'.76 E
(3) 08º 49'.63 N, 120º 13'.99 E
(4) 08º 29'.63 N, 119º 53'.16 E
(5) 08º 36'.15 N, 119º 35'.46 E
(6) 09º 11'.06 N, 119º 36'.67 E
hence back to point (1).

Note: The ATBA was approved at the fourth session of the Sub-Committee on
Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue (NCSR 4/3/4) and
subsequently adopted by MSC 98. It will enter into force on 1 January 2018
at 0000 hours UTC.

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Resolution MSC.294(71)
Annex 18, page 21

(1)

(6)

(2)

_________

(3)

_______________

(5)

(4)

Figure: Chartlet of the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (TRNP) indicating the proposed
ATBA with magenta lines with T-shaped dashes

***

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 MEPC 80/17/Add.1
Annex 20, page 1

ANNEX 20

RESOLUTION MEPC.380(80)
(adopted on 7 July 2023)

DESIGNATION OF THE NORTH-WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN SEA AS A

PARTICULARLY SENSITIVE SEA AREA

THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION COMMITTEE,

RECALLING Article 38(a) of the Convention on the International Maritime Organization

concerning the functions of the Marine Environment Protection Committee conferred upon it
by international conventions for the prevention and control of marine pollution from ships,

BEING AWARE of the ecological criteria, in particular relating to uniqueness or rarity, critical
habitat, dependency, fragility and bio-geographic criteria, and the social, economic and
cultural, and scientific and educational criteria of the North-Western Mediterranean Sea Area
as well as its vulnerability to damage by international shipping activities and the steps taken
by France, Italy, Monaco and Spain to address that vulnerability,

NOTING the Revised guidelines for the identification and designation of Particularly Sensitive
Sea Areas adopted by resolution A.982(24) as amended by resolution MEPC.267(68),
(Revised PSSA Guidelines), and the Guidance document for submission of PSSA proposals
to IMO set forth in MEPC.1/Circ.510,

NOTING ALSO the Guidance document for minimizing the risk of ship strikes with cetaceans
(MEPC.1/Circ.674) sets out a number of measures to reduce the risk of collision between large
cetaceans and ships,

HAVING AGREED that the criteria for the identification and designation of a Particularly
Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA) provided in the Revised PSSA Guidelines are fulfilled for the
North-Western Mediterranean Sea,

HAVING NOTED that the Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communications and Search and
Rescue (NCSR) at its tenth session agreed a set of draft recommended associated protective
measures (APMs) within a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area in the North-Western Mediterranean
Sea, which address ship strikes with cetaceans, and that the Maritime Safety Committee, at
its one-hundredth and seventh session, agreed that these APMs could be referred by the
NCSR Sub-Committee directly to MEPC 80, taking into account the general nature of the
APMs, aiming at information-sharing primarily for contributing to the protection of the marine
environment,

1 DESIGNATES the North-Western Mediterranean Sea, as defined in annex 1, as a

Particularly Sensitive Sea Area;

2 INVITES Member Governments to recognize the ecological, socio-economic and

scientific criteria of the North-Western Mediterranean Sea area, set forth in annex 2 to the
present resolution, as well as its vulnerability to damage by international shipping activities, as
described in annex 3 to this resolution;

3 ALSO INVITES Member Governments to note the associated protective measures

established to address the area's vulnerability, the details of which are contained in annex 4 to
this resolution, and request ships flying their flag that they act in accordance with such
measures.

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MEPC 80/17/Add.1
Resolution MSC.380(80)
Annex 20, page 2

ANNEX 1

DESCRIPTION OF THE NORTH-WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN SEA PARTICULARLY

SENSITIVE SEA AREA (NW MED PSSA)*

Description of the Particularly Sensitive Sea Area

To minimize the risk of ship strikes with cetaceans and ship-generated pollution and to protect
the area's unique and threatened species as well as to preserve as far as practicable its critical
habitat and diversity, mariners should exercise extreme care when navigating in the area
bounded by the geographical coordinates of the Particularly Sensitive Sea Area, provided
below, and adhere to the Associated Protective Measures set out in annex 4.

The North-Western Mediterranean Sea Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (NW Med PSSA) is
located between the coastline of France, Italy, Monaco and Spain and is defined by a line
encompassing the following coordinates:

A 38° 39' 59.379" N 000° 6'0.000" E

B 38° 39' 59.379" N 000° 47' 59.476" E
C 38° 50' 03.331" N 001° 00' 00.398" E
D 39° 19' 01.812" N 001° 00' 25.212" E
E 39° 28' 42.075" N 001° 40' 02.495" E
F 39° 51' 21.986" N 002° 16' 09.853" E
G 40° 34' 13.067" N 004° 04' 31.926" E
H 40° 58' 0.000" N 008° 12'0.000" E
I 41° 09' 10.800" N 009° 31'10.800" E
J 42° 21' 14.400" N 011° 31'0.000" E

To be noted, from H (Falcoe Cape) to I (Ferro Cape) the south boundary follows the coastline
of Sardinia. Coordinates are provided by the WGS84 datum.

Figure 1: Map showing the NW Med PSSA (Source: SHOM)

*
The text in this annex is taken from the information provided by France, Italy, Monaco and Spain in document
MEPC 79/10.

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Resolution MSC.380(80)
Annex 20, page 3

This area encompasses the existing Spanish "Mediterranean Cetacean Migration Corridor"
and the Pelagos Sanctuary defined as such:

A – "Mediterranean Cetacean Migration Corridor"

ID Longitude (ETRS-89) Latitude (ETRS-89)

1. 003° 39' 02.002''E 42° 18' 57.294'' N
2. 003° 39' 02.026''E 41° 54' 15.252'' N
3. 003° 30' 32.060''E 41° 37' 36.567'' N
4. 003° 15' 18.370''E 41° 23' 05.374'' N
5. 001° 34' 43.766''E 40° 42' 21.785'' N
6. 000° 33' 27.757''E 40° 00' 55.698'' N
7. 000° 20' 21.559''E 39° 30' 07.070'' N
8. 000° 20' 21.559''E 38° 49' 44.729'' N
9. 000° 30' 05.254''E 38° 39' 59.379'' N
10. 000° 47' 59.476''E 38° 39' 59.379'' N
11. 001° 00' 00.398''E 38° 50' 03.331'' N
12. 001° 00' 25.212''E 39° 19' 01.812'' N
13. 001° 40' 02.495''E 39° 28' 42.075'' N
14. 002° 16' 09.853''E 39° 51' 21.986'' N
15. 004° 04' 31.926''E 40° 34' 13.067'' N
16. 004° 33' 24.766''E 41° 06' 51.050'' N

B – Pelagos Sanctuary

Boundary Description Longitude Latitude

Western A line extending from the Escampobariou Point N 43°01'70'' E 06°05'90''

(on the western edge of the Giens peninsula)

to the Falcone Cape (the westernmost part of N 40°58'00'' E 08°12'00''

the Gulf of Asinara)

Eastern A line extending from the Ferro Cape (on N 41°09'18'' E 09°31'18''
Sardinia's north-eastern coast)

to Fosso Chiarone (on the west coast of Italy) N 42°21'24'' E 11°31'00''

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ANNEX 2

ECOLOGICAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC CRITERIA OF THE NORTH-WESTERN

MEDITERRANEAN SEA PARTICULARLY SENSITIVE SEA AREA (NW MED PSSA) *

1 Introduction

1.1 The NW Med PSSA covers a perimeter corresponding to the eastern boundary of the
Pelagos Sanctuary and to the west to the Spanish cetacean migration corridor. These are two
specially protected areas of Mediterranean importance (SPAMI) established under the
Barcelona Convention and dedicated to cetaceans including over 230 EU Natura 2000 sites.
The area fully or partly overlaps, under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
framework, the two ecologically or biologically significant marine areas (EBSA) and three
important marine mammal areas (IMMA) identified by the International Union for Conservation
of Nature (IUCN) Marine Mammal Protected area task force. This perimeter also includes most
of the Strait of Bonifacio PSSA.

Physical features

1.2 The North-Western Mediterranean portion of the basin is characterized by the rapid
plunge of its coasts towards the deep-sea (up to 2,000 m in some area) in proximity of the
main islands (Corsica and Sardinia) and off the Ligurian coasts and most of the
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur's and Catalonia's coasts. The continental shelf is developed off
Tuscan coasts (including all around the Tuscan archipelago) and Valencian coasts, with a
maximum extension (about 100 km wide) within the study area in the Gulf of Lion (Occitanie).

1.3 Another notable feature of the North-West Mediterranean seabed is that it shows one
of the highest densities of canyons globally, veritable submarine valleys present on the oceanic
slope, generally between 300 and 600 m deep. Canyons are usually defined from the border
of the continental shelf, having their "head" beginning at -200 m deep, and finishing at the
bottom of the oceanic bed at -2,000 m deep.

1.4 The Mediterranean is an evaporation basin: precipitation and river inputs do not
compensate for evaporation. This water deficit is made up by Atlantic water entering the surface
through the Strait of Gibraltar. Less salty and therefore less dense than the Mediterranean water,
this water will remain on the surface and determine the surface circulation.

1.5 The surface currents have a complex organization, particularly around Corsica.
The main horizontal marine currents have a so-called cyclonic direction (counterclockwise).
The areas where they reach a higher intensity in our study area, i.e. an average annual speed
of more than 0.25 m per second, are the Ligurian Sea and the Tyrrhenian Sea, east of Bonifacio
(Corsica). Seasonal trends show an increase in speed during the summer and autumn.

1.6 Upwelling phenomena, vertical currents that allow deep water to rise to the surface,
are due to a combination of horizontal currents with the wind and can be influenced by the
presence of submarine canyons. The Ligurian Sea and the northern Tyrrhenian Sea are the
most exposed to this phenomenon. In spring, the increase in the temperature of the marine
waters leads to a vertical stabilization of the water masses. Thus, marine currents play a very
important role in the functioning of ecosystems: through their associated horizontal and vertical
movements, they accompany the export of organic matter from the coast to the open sea.

*
The text in this annex is drawn from information provided by France, Italy, Monaco and Spain in document
MEPC 79/10. All references used in this resolution are set out in the annex to document MEPC 79/10.

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General

1.7 The North-Western Mediterranean Sea is one of the world's 10 biodiversity hot spots,
and although it represents only 1% of the total surface area of the oceans, it is home to
around 10% of the world's recorded species. The area therefore simultaneously evidences
multiple criteria for PSSA designation: critical habitat, dependency, diversity, productivity,
spawning or breeding grounds, fragility, biogeographic importance, social or economic
dependency, and research and education. These criteria, which are described below,
demonstrate the global importance of the area, they have also been considered thoroughly under
a number of policy frameworks on natural heritage and socio-economic elements of the marine
environment, including under the CBD and Barcelona conventions, and European Union policies
(e.g. Marine Spatial Planning, Marine Strategy Framework Directive, Common Fishery Policy,
Habitats Directive and the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM)).
2 Ecological criteria
Uniqueness or rarity

2.1 The North-Western Mediterranean is part of a semi-enclosed sea with a high rate of
endemism. The vast majority of its biological populations are composed of Mediterranean
subpopulations, genetically isolated from the Atlantic populations and the others.

Critical habitat

2.2 The ecological and biological significance of the PSSA is supported by the existence
of two areas listed under the CBD framework of the EBSAs, which are overlapping it:
.1 the North-Western Mediterranean Benthic Ecosystems; and
.2 the North-Western Mediterranean Pelagic Ecosystems.
In addition, over two thirds of the PSSA are covered by the "North-Western Mediterranean
Sea, Slope and Canyon System", the "The Shelf of the Gulf of Lion" and the "Western Ligurian
Sea and Genoa Canyon" IMMAs, identified by the IUCN Marine Mammal Protection Working
Group. Moreover, the PSSA includes a candidate IMMA (the "Central Tyrrhenian Sea IMMA")
and an Area of Interest (the Tuscan Archipelago), which could soon become IMMAs. It is also
adjacent to the "Balearic Islands Shelf and Slope IMMA", off the southern coasts of Balearic
Islands, a critical habitat for the Mediterranean sperm whale. It also includes the Pelagos
Sanctuary for marine mammals.

2.3 These areas have a set of geomorphological and oceanographic features that favour
productivity levels of extraordinary biological and ecological importance for the region.
In particular, the PSSA area overlaps important habitats for the endangered Mediterranean fin
whales (Balaenoptera physalus), the endangered sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus), the
vulnerable Cuvier's beaked whales (Ziphius cavirostris), the Habitats European Directive Annex II
bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and the endangered Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus)
(ACCOBAMS 2022). All cetacean species are also listed in Annex IV of the Habitats, Fauna and
Flora European Directive 92/43/EEC (animal and plant species of Community interest that require
strict protection). These species are included in the IUCN red list.

2.4 The preservation of cetaceans is a necessity in terms of maintaining the ecological

balance in the Mediterranean Sea and contributes to the mitigation of climate change (Roman
et al. 2014) their economic value must also be considered, as cetaceans play a major role in
the development of tourism in the area. Finally, from the point of view of biodiversity, some of
the Mediterranean cetacean subpopulations are genetically isolated from Atlantic populations
and the others (e.g. fin and sperm whales), which gives them a unique value.

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2.5 Numerous studies have attempted to define the habitat of cetaceans and distinguish
the presence of different species by physical and hydrological factors such as surface water
temperature and the different water masses present, topographical features, and currents.
The presence of cetaceans is often dependent on the distribution of the prey they feed on.
The continental slope is the preferred habitat of species with a specialized diet composed
mainly of cephalopods: the sperm whale, the Cuvier's beaked whale, the long-finned pilot
whale and the Risso's dolphin; the great abyssal plain is the preferred habitat of the fin whale.
The bottlenose dolphin prefers waters to the continental shelf, usually within the 100 m isobath.

2.6 The PSSA is frequented by several species of cetaceans, eight of which (fin, sperm,
Cuvier's beaked and long-finned pilot whales, Risso's, bottlenose, striped and common
dolphins) are regularly present all year round.

2.7 The importance of this area for fin whales is clear: the estimated abundance of this
species within the PSSA represents about 67% of the whole Mediterranean population
(ACCOBAMS 2021). Concerning the sperm whale, compared to the total Mediterranean
estimate of about 1,400 individuals (ACCOBAMS 2021), the estimate in half of the PSSA
(the whole Pelagos Sanctuary and French waters; Laran et al., 2017) was between 300
and 600 individuals, with higher numbers in winter. The predicted distribution of these two
species is shown in figures 2 and 3.

Figure 2: Above: Fin whale predicted densities (summer data: 1999-2016) (Mannocci et al., 2018);
Below: Fin whale predicted densities (summer 2018) (ACCOBAMS, 2021).

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Figure 3: Sperm whale sightings and acoustic detections (ASI 2018, white squares and
red/orange circles), overlaid on a predictive density map from Mannocci et al., 2018 (yellow =
highest probability, blue = lowest probability) (ACCOBAMS, 2021).

2.8 To date, there is no fine-scale mapping of the preferential habitats of these cetacean
species for the entire North-Western Mediterranean basin that could be used to guide a zoning
approach. Thus, the identification of areas with higher risk of collision between ships and
sensitive species (the fin whale and the sperm whale) within the PSSA is complex.

2.9 The latest cetacean research campaigns in the Mediterranean carried out as part of
the ACCOBAMS Survey Initiative (ASI) have confirmed the knowledge on preferential
presence of fin whales within the PSSA (figure 2), particularly from off the Gulf of Lion to the
coastal and offshore waters off Catalonia. Concerning the offshore areas, this may be linked
to the presence of cyclonic eddies that are the main reason for the high productivity of the
area, as canyons play more a local role.

2.10 The North-Western Mediterranean has one of the highest densities of marine canyons
recorded globally and regionally, which probably strongly contributes to make it highly
productive (see section 2.13). Concerning the Spanish offshore and coastal areas, this has
been recently confirmed as a core-feeding habitat for fin whales, especially in shallow coastal
waters, through satellite tagging. Interestingly, these coastal waters coincide with areas of
higher density within the North-West Mediterranean for European sardines
(Sardina pilchardus) and European anchovies (European anchovy). Their occurrence extends
to the edge of the continental shelf and their distribution generally overlaps, although sardines
are distributed closer to the coast and reach larger sizes (EC et al,. 2020).

2.11 Concerning the sperm whale, the predicted distribution by Mannocci and
colleagues (2018) (figure 3) shows higher densities in the area within the PSSA between the
Balearic Islands and the Spanish continental coast.

2.12 A synthesis of distribution of both species has also been carried out for the Pelagos
Sanctuary and adjacent waters (Laran et al., 2012). Based on multiple data sets over 15 years,
gathering more than 6,000 opportunistic observations, this study highlighted a number of
important features on species' spatial and temporal distribution, including:

.1 the fin whale regularly frequents both the Pelagos Sanctuary and the
adjacent waters of the Provençal area and southern Gulf of Lion;

.2 within the Sanctuary, the fin whale seems to be present mainly in the western
part;

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.3 the distribution of fin whales in spring seems to be mainly related to

permanent frontal structures, while from June to September it is also related
to temporary frontal structures. At the end of the summer, the distribution of
fin whales is more related to permanent frontal zones located closer to the
coast in the Liguro-Provençal area or certain upwelling zones such as the
one to the east of Bonifacio;

.4 the sperm whale is frequently found on the continental slope but can also be
found in certain restricted areas offshore; and

.5 the highest sperm whale encounter rates are in areas with lower fin whale
encounter rates, demonstrating very distinct ecological niches likely due to
their very different diets (planktonophagous the fin whale, teutophagous the
sperm whale).

Dependency

2.13 The area and particularly the Pelagos Sanctuary is an essential feeding ground for
several cetacean species in the North-Western Mediterranean; here, meteorological and
oceanic conditions allow primary productivity in spring and summer to be higher than in the
coastal area. For example, Atlantic krill (Meganyctiphanes norvegica), a zooplankton species
that is exceptionally abundant in the Sanctuary in summer and autumn, is the only identified
source of food for fin whales in summer in the Ligurian-Provençal basin.

2.14 Cuvier's beaked whales, long-finned pilot whales, sperm whales and Risso's dolphins
also take advantage of the Sanctuary's high productivity, particularly on the slope and in the
canyons, but with a time lag compared to fin whales, since the peak abundance of their prey
(mainly cephalopods) is observed later in the season. Bottlenose dolphins or striped dolphins
are permanently present in the waters of the Sanctuary thanks to less specific diets consisting
of cephalopods or fish.

2.15 The NW Med PSSA also includes cetacean corridors. Of particular importance are
the Spanish cetacean migration corridor, north of the Balearic Archipelago, which is also an
important feeding area for striped dolphins, Risso's dolphins, sperm whales and beaked
whales (mainly a three-month period, between April and June). This corridor is also used by
fin whales during their migration from the African coasts of the Mediterranean to the Gulf of
Lion and the Ligurian Sea, in June and July.

2.16 The North-West Mediterranean is characterized by a very high density of submarine

canyons. Canyons are important habitats for some cetacean species (e.g. Cuvier's beaked
whales) and they also contribute to upwelling phenomena enhancing local primary productivity
with the effects extending up the food chain to include birds, marine mammals and fisheries.
Commercially important pelagic and demersal fisheries and unique benthic habitats are
commonly associated with the heads of shelf-incising submarine canyons that are
characterized by steep bedrock exposures. Submarine canyons that extend across the
continental shelf and approach the coast are known to intercept organic-matter-rich sediments
being transported along the inner shelf zone. This process causes organic-rich material to be
supplied and transported downslope, where it provides nourishment to feed a diverse and
abundant macrofauna (Wurtz 2012).

2.17 Other unique habitats that are highly vulnerable to shipping accidents are present in
the region surrounding the PSSA. For example, the Camargue wetlands – a Ramsar site of
about 135,000 ha, the largest French wetland and the second largest Mediterranean wetland
after the Nile Delta region and a key site of international importance for nesting, staging and
wintering of several species of waterbirds.

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Productivity

2.18 Although the Mediterranean is generally considered to be an oligotrophic sea, i.e. low
in nutrients, its North-Western basin is characterized by relatively high mesotrophic productivity
throughout the year, due in part to the physical characteristics mentioned above
(see sections 1.2 and 2.13). The phytoplankton bloom begins in mid-April. This high level of
primary productivity conditions the structuring of the upper levels of the food web, in particular
the presence of tertiary consumers such as cetaceans, which are particularly abundant in
summer.

Spawning and breeding grounds

2.19 Mediterranean cetaceans do not show specific breeding grounds. However, a high
percentage of juvenile whales are reported in the study area. Biopsy sampling analyses
determined that at least one third of the individuals sampled were breeding females and the
remaining two thirds were active breeding males (Siliart et al., 2012), supporting the hypothesis
of this as an area favourable to the reproduction of the species. Similarly, the analysis of the
structure and composition of the groups and their sex ratio have shown that this area is
favourable for sperm whales and long-finned pilot whales too (Di-Méglio et al., 2016).

2.20 Sardines' persistent spawning habitats are identified along Spanish and French
waters, especially surrounding the river mouth areas of Ebro and Rhone, with persistent
nursery habitats in the coastal areas and over the continental shelf edge of the Gulf of Lion
and in the northern part of the Ebro delta. Concerning anchovies, persistent spawning areas
are described along the continental shelf of the same region, with persistent nursery habitats
found mainly over the Spanish continental shelf and in a localized area of the central part of
the French waters (EC et al., 2020).

Fragility

2.21 The semi-enclosed nature of the Mediterranean Sea and its high level of endemism,
already mentioned, as well as the near absence of tides, make it particularly vulnerable to any
change. The constant increase in human activities at sea, in particular maritime traffic,
combined with phenomena linked to climate change (warming, acidification, eutrophication and
bioaccumulation of marine waters in particular) are weakening the natural balance of the
North-Western Mediterranean zone.

2.22 As far as cetaceans are concerned, all the species frequenting the area are
particularly vulnerable because of their slow growth, their high longevity (up to 100 years for
some individuals) and their low reproduction rate: for these species in particular, human
exploitation of the area at high levels (maritime traffic, but also fishing and leisure activities) is
a permanent challenge (Reeves and Notarbartolo, 2006).

2.23 The importance and fragility of this region is clearly demonstrated by the large and
consistent amount of official international deliberations and recognitions (Pelagos Agreement,
Strait of Bonifacio PSSA, 11 SPAMIs, 2 EBSAs) and expert recognitions (3 IMMAs) and the
national implementations of area-based protection measures (7 National Parks, 230 Natura
2000 sites and other marine protected areas).

Bio-geographic criteria

2.24 The particular qualities of the North-Western Mediterranean Sea have already been
mentioned and make it singular in biogeographic terms. This singularity is particularly marked
in the Ligurian Sea with the presence of the Ligurian-Provençal front, a region of rapid transition

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between the light waters of the Ligurian current and the denser waters of the central zone of
this front, in the shape of a horseshoe. It runs about 20 nautical miles along the western coast
of Corsica, the Italian coast of Liguria and the French Riviera in a cyclonic movement.
The permanent nature of this front, as well as its inter-annual stability in terms of hydrology,
gives it a dominant role in the organization of phytoplankton communities and ensures the
maintenance of a zone that is richer in nutrients than the adjacent regions, particularly in spring
(Goffart et al., 1994).

2.25 The North-Western Mediterranean is of particular importance from an ornithological

point of view. It is the most important area in the world for the conservation of the Balearic
Shearwater (Puffinus mauretanicus), a species endemic to the North-Western Mediterranean
whose status is considered critically endangered in Europe. The area is also essential for
Audouin's Gull (Larus audouinii), whose conservation status in Europe is said to be "localized"
as more than 90% of the breeding population is clustered in less than 10 sites. The colony in
the Ebro Delta (Spain) alone accounts for 67% of the world population of this species
(Gutierrez et al., 2008). The area is also used extensively by the Mediterranean endemic
subspecies of the crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax aritotelis desmarestii) and storm-petrel
(Hydrobates pelagicus melitensis).

2.26 This area hosts Mediterranean subpopulations of tropical, subtropical or boreal fish
species or coastal invertebrates, but also top predators such as fin whales, sperm whales or
bottlenose dolphins. This allows the existence of a naturally balanced and functional food web.
The importance of biodiversity within the study area and the genetic specificity of its
populations makes it a special area, whose deterioration could lead to the disappearance of
entire subpopulations.

3 Social, cultural and economic criteria

Social or economic dependency

3.1 The Mediterranean coasts welcome an ever-increasing number of travellers and are
a stronghold of world tourism. Seaside tourism, favoured by an exceptional marine
environment, is one of the main economic resources of this region. The proximity of several
beautiful islands (Corsica, Sardinia, the Tuscan archipelago, Balearic Islands, etc.) makes this
region particularly attractive and, to a large extent, economically dependent on tourism.

3.2 Commercial whale-watching (a tourist service that allows visitors to observe

cetaceans in their natural environment) has been a fast-growing activity since the 1990s.
A study conducted in the French Mediterranean identified 32 operators (with a capacity
of 1,075 places). Between the 1980s and the early 2000s, the annual growth rate in the number
of operators was estimated at 3.5% (Mayol et al., 2014). This activity is mainly carried out
between June and September.

3.3 Professional fishing is an integral part of the Mediterranean landscape, despite a

relative economic weight and decreases in the number of vessels, sailors, sales in value and
volume. It contributes to the dynamism and survival of the Mediterranean coastal economic
fabric as well as to its reputation. Fishing activity is constrained in several ways, particularly
with the decline in fish stocks and the management measures implemented to remedy this
(MTES, 2019).

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4 Scientific and educational criteria

Research

4.1 It is essential to study Mediterranean cetaceans in order to gain a better

understanding of them and then define the most effective management and conservation rules.
The Pelagos Sanctuary, which includes France, Italy and Monaco, is a pilot area in which a
number of international research programmes are already being conducted to improve
knowledge not only of cetacean populations in the North-Western Mediterranean, but also of
the main anthropogenic threats to which they are exposed, both at sea and on land.
The establishment of the Spanish cetacean migration corridor also makes it possible to
promote research on these populations, embracing an even wider diversity of habitats.

Education

4.2 Knowledge of cetacean populations must continue to progress, but it must also be
disseminated to as many people as possible. The existence of marine protected areas
contributes effectively to this and promotes collective awareness of the rich and fragile nature
of marine areas and the populations they shelter, through the awareness-raising and
communication activities they implement.

4.3 The development of whale-watching activities in situ also contributes to this, when
properly supervised. The emblematic nature of cetaceans makes it possible to communicate
more widely with the general public on ecological issues that concern the entire marine
environment and the impacts it is suffering, particularly as a result of direct human action and
climate change. The training of marine professionals is also an important lever for raising
awareness, which can be deployed in different formats: initial and ongoing training, courses,
webinars, etc.

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ANNEX 3

VULNERABILITY TO DAMAGE BY INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING ACTIVITIES*

1 Vessel traffic characteristics

Introduction

1.1 The Mediterranean Sea is one of the busiest shipping areas in the world, being the
gateway between the European continent and Asia via the Suez Canal. With an
estimated 220,000 merchant ships per year, commercial shipping is particularly intense in the
Western Mediterranean, especially in relation to passenger transport. Commercial activity
concerns the transport of passengers or goods by ships often exceeding 100 m in size, sailing
at between 14 and over 20 knots (ferries, cargo ships, tankers, container ships, etc.) and up
to more than 35 knots for high-speed craft (HSC), which are mainly used to serve the islands.

1.2 From the mid-1990s to the mid-2000s, the Mediterranean Sea has seen a 58%
increase in transit capacity, coupled with a 30% increase in vessel size since 1997. Maritime
transport in the Mediterranean basin is expected to increase in the coming years, both in
number of routes and in intensity, especially in connection with the enlargement of the Suez
Canal. Marine Mammal Observers working within the Fix Line Transect Mediterranean
Network (FLT) aboard ferries, at the command deck, raise awareness of the navigating staff
of ferries.

1.3 An analysis of Automatic Identification System (AIS) data by the Centre for studies
and expertise on risks, environment, mobility and urban and country planning (Cerema –
France) shows a gradual trend towards an increase in the number of vessels equipped with
this identification system using the area and in the number of voyages made in the area
(figure 4).

Number of ships Number of sailings

Figure 4: Number of ships and sailings in the study area (based on AIS data).

*
The text in this annex is taken from the information provided by France, Italy, Monaco and Spain in document
MEPC 79/10. All references used in this resolution are set out in the annex to document MEPC 79/10.

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Operational factors

1.4 In the North-Western Mediterranean, shipping traffic is mainly structured towards or

from the ports of Valencia, Tarragona, Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, La Spezia and Livorno for
goods traffic, to which are added the ports of Toulon, Sète, Nice, Savona and all ports in the
islands of Corsica, Sardinia, the Tuscan archipelago, Sicily and the Balearic Islands for
passenger transport. This geographical situation of proximity to the islands, combined with
commercial port infrastructures, promotes maritime ferry traffic. Moreover, the cruise activity
has largely developed in the Mediterranean, benefiting from favourable weather conditions and
dedicated infrastructures: the region represents the second world market for this sector, after
the Caribbean (Di-Méglio et al., 2010). Finally, more than 700 marinas are listed in the
Mediterranean basin.

Vessel types

1.5 A study conducted by the Quiet Oceans consultancy on behalf of WWF (Gallou and
Folegot, 2020) analysed shipping traffic in the North-Western Mediterranean, using AIS data
from 2019. In terms of distance travelled in this area, passenger ships and cargo ships travel
by far the greatest distance, followed by motorized pleasure craft and fishing vessels.

Traffic characteristics

1.6 Freight traffic is higher in winter, in the northern part of the study area, along the
coasts of the Gulf of Lion, towards Barcelona and with Corsica and Sardinia. Passenger traffic
is highly structured around links between the main ports of France, Spain and Italy on the one
hand, and Corsica, the Balearic Islands, Sardinia and the Tuscan archipelago on the other.
Traffic intensity increases significantly during the summer months for passenger transport
between the Mediterranean islands and the mainland, as well as with additional connections
to North Africa and Barcelona and with cruise activity (see figures 5 and 6).

1.7 More than two thirds of the vessels using the study area (68% in winter and 71% in
summer) fly a European flag, representing more than 70% of the cumulative distances
travelled, whatever the season.

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Figure 5: Representation of the maritime traffic during the winter period (2019, AIS source).

Figure 6: Representation of the maritime traffic during the summer period (2018, AIS source).

Harmful substances carried

1.8 The rules on the transport of harmful substances are derived from the International
Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, known as the MARPOL Convention.
These rules are contained in different international codes, depending on the nature and mode
of transport of these substances. The Mediterranean is an important transport route, but also
a major oil loading and unloading centre. It is also a major route for tankers.

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1.9 In 2006, about 18% of the world's crude oil shipping, representing 4,224 voyages
and 421 million tonnes, took place in the Mediterranean (MIU, 2008). Of the 10 main ports of
discharge identified in 2006, 4 are located in the study area: Fos and Port-de-bouc (Marseille
region), Genoa and Savona (Italy).

1.10 In 2006, liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) loadings
amounted to 31 and 19 million tonnes respectively and unloading to 25 and 20 million tonnes
for the whole Mediterranean (MIU, 2008).

1.11 Transported chemicals include organic compounds, animal oils and fats, inorganic
compounds and other miscellaneous products. The transport of chemicals in liquid and
gaseous form represents a relatively small share of international maritime trade (about 2%)
but remains a very dynamic and important sector in terms of value of goods; however, their
accidental release would be harmful to the marine environment.

2 Natural factors

Hydrographical

2.1 Some areas are known to present risks to navigation, due to the presence of the
narrowness of the passage or sectors with numerous islands and islets. This is particularly the
case of the Strait of Bonifacio, which is 15 to 20 km wide and 100 m deep at its deepest point
between southern Corsica and northern Sardinia. At its eastern mouth, it also contains the
islands of the archipelagos of La Maddalena, Lavezzi and the island of Cavallo. This passage
is considered dangerous due to the presence of numerous rocks and strong currents that can
increase the risk of grounding and other accidents. These characteristics prompted the
establishment of the Bonifacio Strait PSSA.

2.2 The small pass of the islands of Hyères is also a potentially dangerous area for large
vessels. Located between the Giens peninsula and the island of Porquerolles, its narrowest
part extends over less than one mile, with depths of less than 20 m. The traffic of passenger
HSC is very important in the summer season. Cruise ships and ro-ro passenger ships also use
it, generally in an east-west direction in heavy westerly weather (GIS3M, 2010).

Meteorological

2.3 The Mediterranean climate is characterized by hot, dry summers under the influence
of the Azores anticyclone, and mild, relatively rainy winters. Local winds are variable, in both
direction and strength, and become stronger in winter with gusts that can exceed 100 km/h.
North and north-west winds (Tramontane and Mistral) create the most violent storms.

Oceanographic

2.4 In the Mediterranean, the influence of the tides is weak; the tidal range does not
exceed 40 cm on average near the coast. Tidal currents are weak and negligible compared to
wind-induced currents. Generally, they are not felt near the coast in wide open areas, but they
can be rapid in some narrow passages or shallow areas. The average sea waves and swell
are generally weak, due to the small size of the Mediterranean basin where swells are
infrequent and not very developed. The strongest states of the sea, in terms of height, are
generated by north to north-west winds.

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3 Other Information: Impacts of shipping traffic on the area

Collisions between ships and large cetaceans

3.1 The impact of ship collisions is now internationally recognized as an important threat
to cetaceans, especially as shipping traffic, vessel size and speed continue to increase.
Collisions involve a wide variety of vessels, with the risk of collision increasing with vessel
speed (as does the severity of injury to the animal), although there is currently insufficient data
to adequately quantify this risk (Leaper, 2019).

3.2 The actual total number of collisions between large cetaceans and ships and the
consequent impact at population level are difficult to be assessed. Accidents generally take
place offshore and are rarely noticed by seafarers (this is particularly true when the vessels
are large). Nevertheless, scientific work carried out over the last 15 years, sometimes in
collaboration with shipping companies, has shown that two species are mainly concerned in
the Mediterranean: the fin whale (Balaenoptera physalus) and the sperm whale (Physeter
macrocephalus). The latter spends long periods of rest floating at the surface, usually about 10
minutes, between deep dives: this behaviour makes it very vulnerable to ship strikes
(UNEP/MAP-RAC/PSA, 2016).

3.3 Analysis of records of collisions between ships and the Mediterranean fin whale
population over the period 1971-2001 showed that more than 80% of fatal ship strikes occurred
in the North-West Mediterranean (Panigada et al., 2006). During the period 2012-2018, the
annual number of deadly collisions within the PSSA perimeter was up to 25.38 (Standard
Deviation (SD) =5.97) fin whales per year. Based on recognized management rules, this value
means that collisions alone prevent the restoration of the fin whale subpopulation
within 100 years. Furthermore, there is almost a 10% chance that ship strike mortality triggers
a subpopulation decline.

3.4 Strandings data may complement the information on these accidents. A study carried
out on strandings on the French coast since 1972 (Peltier et al., 2019) gave the following
results:

.1 collisions are the main human cause of death for fin whales in the western
Mediterranean (22.5% of stranding causes analysed on average; they are
the cause of one in five strandings for all species combined);

.2 evidence of collision could only be found for the period 2005 - 2017 for the
sperm whale in the Mediterranean;

.3 the majority of fin whales fatally struck by ships had not yet reached the
reproductive stage; and

.4 the small size of the fin whale population in Mediterranean waters makes it
particularly vulnerable to anthropogenic pressures.

3.5 An assessment carried out by France as part of the implementation of the European
Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), in 2018, reports that in the western
Mediterranean collisions are a cause for concern for fin whales, accounting for 80% of recorded
events, compared to 10% for sperm whales (Spitz et al., 2018). Other work indicates that
collisions and incidental catches alone may be responsible for the decline of the Mediterranean
fin whale subpopulation, and points to the need for further research to determine how indirect
anthropogenic mortalities (pollution, prey depletion) affect the sperm whale population
(Sèbe et al., 2020).

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3.6 Another approach to assessing the risk of collision is theoretical statistical analysis.
Thus, the processing of data concerning shipping traffic with those mentioning the presence
of cetaceans made it possible to calculate a theoretical ship-whale encounter rate ("near miss
event" or NME). This approach was implemented for the study area (excluding the Spanish
corridor), and gives the following results for fin whales (Gallou and Folegot, 2020), however
this work could not be carried out for sperm whales due to the lack of sufficient biological data:

.1 seasonal differences are mainly due to the variability in the number of ships
using the area, which doubles in summer compared to winter; and

.2 passenger ships and cargo ships have the highest cumulative risk of collision
(84% NME in winter, 72% in summer).

3.7 In a similar manner the Spanish experience focused on a study carried out in the MPA
Cetacean Migration Corridor in the Mediterranean (CEDEX, 2021), where the presence of fin
whales) and sperm whales has been confirmed. For this purpose, a spatial qualitative indicator
of "potential risk of collision" was used considering, on the one hand, data related to maritime
traffic, based on AIS data, and on the other hand, the available information related to sightings
of the species under study, cited above.

3.8 The analysis carried out for the period of Oct 2018-Sep 2019 showed that up to 4,552
ships (including high-speed crafts, passenger ships, cargoes and tankers) have transited this
marine protected area, making a total of 5.81 million km travelled with an average route per
ship of 132 km.

3.9 In order to obtain the spatial distribution of collision risk, a hazard analysis was carried
out, based on the logistic curve that relates the ship's speed and mortality (Vanderlaan and
Taggart, 2007) and an approximation to a hazard index based on Vaes and Druon (2013). This
index includes not only the traffic involved, but also the characteristics of the ship and its
navigation features (i.e. distance travelled), which can affect the fate of the cetacean after the
collision. This concept of risk represents a further step, since it combines the hazard of
maritime traffic with the exposure associated with the presence of cetaceans.

3.10 The final objective was to identify those zones within the study area where the
concentration of individuals and overall risk was higher. Within the cetacean migration corridor,
for the total traffic analysed, these areas were identified with the north-western end of the
corridor and the area affected by the routes starting from the port of Barcelona, as shown in
figure 7. A more detailed analysis (not included in this document) makes it possible to quantify
the contribution to this risk indicator of the different categories of ships or the incidence of the
seasonal effects of traffic.

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Balaenoptera physalus Physeter macrocephalus

Figure 7: Potential collision risk index associated with the presence of the cetaceans and
maritime traffic in the CCM Oct 2018-Sept 2019 (CEDEX, 2021).

3.11 In order to help the decision-making process, this analysis allows focusing on where
and when to take measures (i.e. depending on the availability of data related to a temporal
distribution of cetaceans). Based on the above, it is concluded that the whale population has
suffered ship strikes in the region and therefore the cetacean population is at risk. Without
associated protective measures to mitigate the risk of collision within the perimeter of the
PSSA, a decline in the populations of medium and large cetaceans is to be expected.
Implementing a speed reduction strategy will allow a significant decrease in the likelihood of
collision and fatal wildlife-related injuries.

3.12 The IWC Scientific Committee has identified the need for a better understanding of
the relationship between vessel speed, the risk of death or injury to the whale and damage to
the vessel. It has considered a number of studies and approaches since 2009 when
MEPC.1/Circ.674 was adopted. All the studies considered have confirmed an increased risk
with increased speed, supporting the use of speed restrictions as a way of reducing risk.
Some studies have attempted to quantify the speed-risk relationship for specific whale species
(Conn and Silber, 2013) or the hydrodynamic forces in relation to speed (Silber et al., 2014).
Others (e.g. Wiley et al., 2011) have evaluated the relative risk reduction that might be
achieved by speed restrictions. In addition to studies based on collisions, studies based on
observations of whales close to vessels have inferred greater collision risks with increases in
speed (Gende et al., 2011; Harris et al., 2012).

3.13 At its meeting in 2022, the IWC Scientific Committee recommended that "action needs
to be taken to reduce ship strike risks to the Mediterranean populations of fin and sperm
whales". The Committee also recognized that, "in line with its previous recommendations,
since routeing options do not seem to be possible in the area, the most effective way to reduce
risk is through speed reductions". Finally, the Committee recommended that "any measures
that are implemented are fully monitored and evaluated in terms of the risk reduction that is
expected to be achieved, including through the use of AIS data to assess levels of industry
cooperation, and that measures can be adapted based on this".

3.14 The most recent example of voluntary speed reduction to mitigate cetacean ship
strikes is given by the case of the endangered Bryde's whales in the Hauraki Gulf,
New Zealand (Constantine et al., 2015). Since the introduction of a speed limit of 10 knots
in 2013, no collision events were recorded after an average of 2.4 whales per annum recorded
in the period 1996 - 2014 (Ebdon et al., 2019).

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3.15 Along the Atlantic coast of the United States, in the five years after the enactment of
mandatory 10 knots speed restrictions in several Seasonal Management Areas, there were no
right whale mortalities attributed to ship strikes either in or within 45 NM of these areas.
These results indicate a statistically significant reduction in right whale ship lethal strikes in
these areas suggesting that the speed limits have been effective (Laist et al., 2014).

3.16 Several models have shown that speeds between 10 and 13 knots drastically decrease
the probability of lethal injuries in case of collisions between ships and cetaceans (Vanderlaan &
Taggart 2007; Gende et al., 2011; Conn & Siliber 2013). There is strong support to identify 12
knots (11.8 knots or 6.1 m/s) as Bayesian change point of probability for the relationship between
ship speed and encounter distance. Average encounter distances above and below the 11.8 knots
change point vary from 448 m (95%CrI, 398-485) to 562 m (95%CrI, 468-676) (Gende et al., 2011).

Physical disturbance of cetaceans by ships

3.17 The presence of ships may influence cetaceans: attraction, flight or no apparent
reaction, depending on species and individuals (Di-Méglio et al., 2010). It is likely to generate
behavioural responses causing individuals to move to less favourable habitats, altering the
normal course of functions such as foraging, social functioning, reproduction, suckling, resting
or migration. This state of stress alters the health status of individuals and demographic
parameters may be degraded. If changes in cetacean behaviour have been observed (notably
in the case of the bottlenose dolphin in the Mediterranean) and disturbance distances have
sometimes been inferred, it is difficult in the current state of knowledge to quantify the impacts
of this pressure in terms of population ecology.

Underwater noise from commercial shipping

3.18 Underwater noise generated by human activities is one of the pressures identified and
assessed in the framework of the implementation of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive
(descriptor 11 of the Directive) and its complementary process at the Mediterranean level
(Ecosystem Approach Process (EcAp) led by the Barcelona Convention). Among the activities
concerned is shipping, where the main contributor to the noise generated by a merchant ship
is the movement of the engine propeller. The noise level increases with the shape of the
propeller, the state of wear of the ship, its size, speed and loading. The literature shows a
direct relationship between speed and noise (McKenna et al., 2013; Zobell et al., 2021).
Leaper (2019) concluded that a 10% speed reduction would reduce the total sound energy
from shipping by around 40% on the global scale.

3.19 In the Mediterranean basin, anthropogenic noise levels have been steadily increasing
over the past 50 years as shipping traffic has increased. According to the first EU maritime
transport first environmental impact report (EMTER report) published in 2021, for EU waters
the total accumulated underwater radiated noise energy more than doubled between 2014
and 2019. The underwater radiated noise (URN) from shipping is now recognized both in IMO
and EU as a significant environmental issue with regional and global impact. The European
Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) conducted a study in 2021, focusing on a number of key
aspects related to URN: the existing policy and current understanding about sources of
continuous URN from different types of ships, its impacts on the marine environment, and
mitigation actions. The study was carried out by "WavEC Offshore Renewables" and "Maritime
Research Institute Netherlands" (MARIN) on behalf of EMSA. Commercial vessels can have
short- and long-term negative consequences for marine life, in particular marine mammals
(IMO, 2014, MEPC.1/Circ.833): the diffuse increase by maritime traffic in ambient noise levels,
especially in the low frequencies, reduces the communication range of cetaceans, making it
difficult for them to find mates or establish social relationships, as well as foraging and
orientation. Furthermore, repeated shallow dives to cope with persistent acoustic disturbance
are likely to increase the risk of decompression illness in marine mammals (GIS3M, 2010).

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3.20 To be noted, ships concerned with speed reductions should be chosen carefully, as
these measures can also have opposite effects on underwater noise and gas emissions
depending on propeller designs (Leaper, 2019), and the technical criteria of the electrical
distribution and the type of propulsion of the ship. As the aim of this project is not to increase
the impact of maritime traffic on cetaceans, consideration should be given to the equipment of
vessels to reduce noise. For example, changing the propellers during maintenance, having a
certificate of conformity, equipping with a noise self-estimation and cavitation detection system.
The designation of the PSSA will allow further studies to be carried out on the matter.

Chemical pollution

Hydrocarbons

3.21 Accidental oil spills have become rare in the Mediterranean, the last major accident
being the MT Haven in the Gulf of Genoa in 1991, but they can cause considerable damage
to the marine environment given the quantities of oil spilled and the length of time it takes for
the impacted habitats to recover.

3.22 With regard to illegal discharges, the use of satellite imagery can contribute to the
estimation of the number of oil spills from ships, without providing proof that the discharge is
illegal or that it is from a ship. In 2016, EMSA's CleanSeaNet platform recorded a total of 1,073
detections of likely polluting incidents and a total of 1,060 detections of potentially polluting
incidents in the Mediterranean region and off the Atlantic coasts of Morocco, Portugal, Spain
and France. Although these data remain to be confirmed, both in terms of the nature of the
pollution and its origin, they clearly indicate that oil pollution incidents caused by ships remain
a concern in the Mediterranean.

3.23 Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can bioaccumulate in the tissues of marine
mammals. The viscous crude oil spilled during an oil spill can cover the surface of the
cetacean's body for a long period of time, which can reduce its filtering capacity: this can be
the case for fin whales. The deterioration of zooplankton by an oil spill can also generate an
indirect negative impact on some whales, as it is the main food for them.

Anti-fouling paints

3.24 Anti-fouling paints are one of the sources of heavy metals and biocides in
Mediterranean waters, particularly off the coast of port areas. Through bioaccumulation,
marine mammals can be sensitive to this type of pollution, which can disrupt their immune
system and even lead to death.

Other toxic products

3.25 In addition to oil, hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) accidentally spilled into the
marine environment can threaten marine species such as cetaceans. HNS include bulk liquid
cargoes (petrochemicals, solvents and liquefied gases, etc.), bulk solid cargoes (fertilizers,
etc.) and packaged chemicals. The quantities of HNS accidentally spilled have decreased
considerably between 1994 and 2013 in the Mediterranean. Since 2003, the discharge of HNS
has become insignificant compared to the period from 1994 to 2002.

Marine litter

3.26 The Mediterranean Sea is one of the most affected areas by marine litter in the world
and by plastic in particular, which can constitute up to 90% of the seabed litter. A study by
Arcangeli et al. 2020 showed that there is a gradient x10 in density of marine litter from

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offshore, to coastal and to river. Meaning that marine litters are coming from land through rivers
(highest densities) and then are spread over the vast oceanic surface. Its origin is mainly
land-based, but it is estimated that ships are the source of almost a quarter of this litter
(Koutsodendris et al., 2008; Loakeimidis et al., 2014).

3.27 Accumulation rates vary greatly and are influenced by several factors, such as the
proximity of large cities, coastal artificialization and frequentation, hydrodynamics and maritime
activities. The semi-enclosed nature of the Mediterranean basin also explains the high
accumulation rates observed. The analysis of this waste shows a great variability in its nature
and origin, with the highest quantities located mainly near large cities, river mouths and coastal
canyons where currents are slower and strong sedimentation occurs.

3.28 In the French part of the study area, accumulation rates of 290 objects/km² can be
reached on the continental shelf, with plastic waste found at different depths. The majority of
plastic waste found in this area originates from fishing activities, with ferry traffic around
Corsica also representing a considerable source of waste, particularly bottles and cans thrown
overboard (Gerigny et al., 2019). The presence of marine litter in increasing quantities is a
serious threat to marine ecosystems, particularly for turtles and marine mammals (risk of
entanglement, suffocation by ingestion).

Biological pollution

3.29 Shipping transport is considered to be the most important vector for the import of
exogenous marine species in the world, via ballast water or biofouling accumulated on the
surface of ships' hulls, respectively managed by IMO through the Ballast Water Management
Convention and the Anti-Fouling System Convention. The semi-enclosed nature of the
Mediterranean Sea and the importance of shipping traffic, particularly in its north-western
basin, make it very sensitive to this risk. Invasive species can cause the restructuring of entire
habitats to the detriment of native species, with the risk of reducing biological and genetic
diversity within populations. However, this risk is only likely to affect very indirectly cetacean
populations in the Mediterranean.

Greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions

3.30 Greenhouse gas emissions have a global impact and are generated by various
sectors of activity, including transport. Shipping traffic contributes to this, but only to a limited
extent: in 2017, 3.15% of total EU greenhouse gas emissions were attributable to international
shipping. However, with a significant increase of 32% over the last 20 years and an estimated
projection of 50 - 250% by 2050, despite reductions in fuel consumption, the European
Parliament voted on 16 September 2020 to include shipping in the EU Emissions Trading
Scheme (EU ETS) and to set binding standards for shipping companies to reduce their CO2
emissions by at least 40% by 2030. Negotiations are still ongoing on the EU's Fit for 55
legislative package.

3.31 CO2 emissions from maritime transport are estimated at about 10% of the total CO 2
inventories emitted by the 21 Mediterranean countries that are signatories to the Barcelona
Convention. These emissions also contribute to increased acidification and eutrophication of
the marine environment.

3.32 The consequences of the increase in greenhouse gases on the marine environment
are known and include the increase in temperature and acidification of marine waters. This
may have consequences for cetaceans in terms of the distribution of their prey and their
vulnerability to pathogens, which could thus find more favourable conditions for their
development.

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3.33 The Mediterranean States have jointly committed, within the framework of IMO, in a
landmark initiative on the greening of maritime transport. The States submitted to IMO a joint
and coordinated proposal to establish an Emission Control Area for Sulphur Oxides and
particulate matter (SECA) in the whole Mediterranean Sea at the seventy-eighth session of the
Committee for the Protection of the Marine Environment (MEPC). The designation of this area
as a SECA entails the obligation for all ships entering the Mediterranean to use fuel with
sulphur content not exceeding 0.10% by mass, i.e. fuel five times less polluting than the
international standard in non-SECA. MEPC adopted amendments to designate the
Mediterranean Sea, as a whole, as a SECA under MARPOL Annex VI, at its seventy-ninth
session in 2022. The amendment is expected to enter into force on 1 May 2024, with the new
sulphur limit taking effect from 1 May 2025. This new SECA will significantly improve air quality
in the area and protect the health of millions of Mediterranean citizens and their fragile
environment.

Summary of groundings, collisions or spills in the area

3.34 The Mediterranean Integrated Geographic Information System for Risk Assessment
and Response to Marine Pollution (MEDGIS-MAR), administered by REMPEC, lists 82 events
that occurred in the study area between 1977 and 2017. However, as no data is available for
the study area between 2002 and 2011, it is likely that some information is missing or not
published.

3.35 Of the events listed, 8 resulted in the release of more than 700 tonnes of hazardous
substances into the environment (6 involving oil pollution), 8 resulted in the release of
between 7 and 700 tonnes, 42 resulted in the release of less than 7 tonnes of hazardous
substances.

3.36 The most dramatic event for the marine environment in the area was the accident off
Genoa on 11 April 1991, when an explosion followed by a fire on the Cypriot tanker MT Haven
resulted in the loss of 144,000 tonnes of heavy oil at sea. In terms of media coverage, the
sinking of the cruise ship Costa Concordia in 2012 is widely remembered, mainly for the loss
of life, although its impact on the marine environment was limited.

3.37 In relation to collisions between ships and cetaceans, a very recent collision event
can be cited. The vessel Hypatia de Alexandria, from the Balearia fleet, brushed against two
fin whales that were 15 miles off the coast of the Llobregat Delta on 26 May 2022. One of the
individuals made an emergency dive about 50 m from the vessel and the other is believed to
have grazed the keel of the vessel.

Measures taken to protect the area and their positive effects

3.38 The wealth and plurality of environmental issues in the study area, as already
described, have prompted the coastal States or local authorities concerned to take specific
protection measures by creating various marine protected areas. In total, almost 145,000 km²
of the study area has a special status.

3.39 A number of measures have already been adopted by IMO including:

.1 adoption on 2 November 1973 of a Special Area (SA) covering the entire

Mediterranean under Annexes I (Regulation for the Prevention of Pollution
by oil) and V (Regulation for the Prevention of Pollution by garbage from
ships) of the MARPOL Convention. This measure came into force
on 2 October 1983;

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.2 adoption on 15 July 2011 of a PSSA for the Strait of Bonifacio by

resolution MEPC.204(62) which refers to protective measures previously
adopted by resolution A.766(18) on 4 November 1993; and

.3 adoption on 16 December 2022 of the Mediterranean Sea Emission Control

Area for Sulphur Oxides and Particulate Matter by resolution MEPC.361(79).

3.40 Measures have also been taken for the protection of cetaceans including

.1 International Pelagos Sanctuary - the Pelagos Agreement (November 1999)

for the protection of marine mammals within the Pelagos Sanctuary entered
into force on 21 February 2002, after ratification by the three concerned
countries (France, Italy, Monaco). The Sanctuary covers a total area
of 87,500 km². The objective of the agreement is to maintain a favourable
conservation status for marine mammal populations within the Sanctuary,
and to this end, to monitor cetacean populations, to reinforce the application
of existing legislation on certain fishing activities, to reduce pollution, to
regulate tourist observation of cetaceans and to improve the dissemination
of information to the public. Since November 2002, the Pelagos Sanctuary
has also been recognized by the Barcelona Convention Contracting Parties
as a specially protected area of Mediterranean importance (SPAMI); and

.2 The MPA cetacean migration corridor in the Mediterranean (Spain) - The

Spanish government has designated a 46,385 km² corridor between
Valencia, Catalonia and the Balearic Islands as a Marine Protected Area, to
protect cetaceans present and migrating in the area. The Barcelona
Convention, allowing the area to be designated as a SPAMI, validated this in
December 2019.

3.41 In addition a large number of measures have been taken for the wider protection of
environments at the national level, these are listed in document MEPC 79/10.

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Annex 20, page 24

ANNEX 4

ASSOCIATED PROTECTIVE MEASURE FOR THE NORTH-WESTERN

MEDITERRANEAN SEA PARTICULARLY SENSITIVE SEA AREA (NW MED PSSA)

Associated Protective Measures (APMs)

The associated protective measures (APMs) recommendatory in nature as identified below

are deemed to be applied by any commercial ships and pleasure yachts from 300 gross
tonnage and upwards; the APMs would not apply to any warship and other governmental ships
operated for non-commercial purposes.

1 Mariners should navigate with particular caution within the NW Med PSSA, in areas
where large and medium cetaceans are detected or reported, and reduce their speed
to between 10 and 13 knots as voluntary speed reduction (VSR). However, a safe
speed should be kept, so that proper and effective action could be taken to avoid
collision and any possible negative impacts on ship's manoeuvrability.

2 Mariners should keep an appropriate safety distance or speed reduction measure from
any large and medium cetaceans observed or detected in close quarter situation. The
safety distance or speed reduction measure should be adapted to the actual navigation
circumstances and conditions of the ship.

3 Mariners should broadcast on VHF or other available means on scene, the position of
medium and large cetaceans observed or detected within the designated PSSA and
transmit the information and the position to a designated coastal Authority or
Authorities.

4 Mariners should report any collision with cetaceans to a designated coastal Authority
or Authorities, which should forward this information to the International Whaling
Commission (IWC) global cetacean ship strikes database.

***

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