Dariusz KLOSKOWSKI
University of Technology in Koszalin, Koszalin, Poland
The problem of marine pollution is one of the most important topics that concern today’s civil societies, especially when it involves uncontrolled sabotage. With this in mind, it was determined that maintaining an appropriate and satisfactory level of cleanliness in the Baltic Sea is a research topic worth exploring. Furthermore, it was noted that, while there is a considerable amount of research material in this area, there is a significant gap in the context of the so-called „shadow fleet”. This gap undoubtedly stems from the topic’s inherent incompetence, which is why this study attempts to present a different perspective – a simulation of the existing ecological threat in the South Baltic area.
Therefore, the main goal of this study is to demonstrate the impact of the „shadow fleet” on the ecological threats in the South Baltic area, based on publicly available simulation models, which provide a basis for taking action to counteract any emerging crisis incidents. The study utilized secondary analysis of literature and legislative data in Poland and the European Union, which allowed for the analysis of available data on the impact of the „shadow fleet” on the initiation of ecological threats in the Baltic Sea area. Additionally, the study employed a case study approach, which allowed for the analysis of available simulation models in the context of the impact of the „shadow fleet” activity in the Baltic Sea on the initiation of possible changes in the context of area contamination caused by oil and petroleum spills.
The final section of the study presents important conclusions related primarily to the need to maintain continuous operational readiness and the ability to respond to threats to our marine environment, as well as to implement a support package for naval units from each Baltic state, within their respective competences. The study also revealed that the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East have exposed the problem of uncontrolled vessels, which impact international maritime security.