Rise of shadow tankers threatens Baltic Sea safety and environment

The Baltic Sea has seen a significant increase in unregulated 'shadow' tankers transporting Russian oil, with a 30% rise reported last year. This surge poses serious environmental and safety risks, as many of these ageing vessels operate without proper insurance and outside international regulations. The average age of these tankers is 29.3 years, making them prone to accidents. The cessation of local Danish pilots for Russian oil tankers has further exacerbated the situation, as foreign operators may lack familiarity with local sea conditions, increasing the likelihood of maritime incidents. The potential for catastrophic oil spills in the Baltic Sea threatens coastal ecosystems and marine life, particularly in Danish waters. Such pollution could have long-lasting effects, disrupting habitats and endangering various species. The economic repercussions of an oil spill would also be severe, impacting local economies reliant on clean waters and healthy marine environments. Despite efforts by Denmark and neighboring Baltic countries to enhance protection of their territorial waters, these initiatives are insufficient to address the growing issue of shadow oil traffic. Denmark is considering stricter inspections of Russian oil tankers, but many vessels continue to operate with minimal oversight due to gaps in international legislation and standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The urgency for collective action is paramount. Enhanced monitoring, new safety standards for shipping, and tougher sanctions are essential to prevent potential disasters and safeguard the environmental integrity of the Baltic Sea region.